Recognising the symptoms of Long COVID Fatigue at our private Long COVID clinic using The Perrin Technique

COVID-19 has affected millions of people across the UK. While many individuals recover fully, a proportion continue to experience ongoing symptoms after the initial infection has passed. When symptoms persist beyond four weeks after a suspected or confirmed COVID-19 infection, this is commonly described as Long COVID.

At Rakhee Osteopathy, a private clinic in London, patients experiencing persistent fatigue and other Long COVID symptoms may be assessed and supported using The Perrin Technique—an osteopathic approach that focuses on lymphatic drainage, gentle cranial techniques, and support for autonomic nervous system regulation.

When fatigue does not settle after COVID-19

Fatigue is one of the most commonly reported Long COVID symptoms. Some patients describe a level of exhaustion that is out of proportion to activity and can significantly limit daily functioning. In more severe cases, individuals may struggle with basic day-to-day tasks or spend prolonged periods resting due to symptom flare-ups.

Alongside fatigue, Long COVID can involve a wide range of symptoms, which may vary from person to person. Patients commonly report:

• Cognitive difficulties, including poor concentration and “brain fog”

• Headaches and sensitivity to stress

• Mood changes, including anxiety or low mood

• Breathing difficulties, chest tightness, or ongoing cough

• Dizziness or balance issues

• Aches and pains, including muscle and joint discomfort

• Heart-related symptoms, such as palpitations or changes in blood pressure (which should always be discussed with an appropriate medical professional)

Importantly, Long COVID may affect people of different ages and backgrounds, including those who had no known health issues before infection.

How The Perrin Technique is used in Long COVID care

The Perrin Technique is a hands-on osteopathic approach developed to support patients with fatigue-related conditions. In the context of Long COVID, it is often discussed in relation to:

• Lymphatic congestion (a reduced ability to clear inflammatory by-products efficiently), and

• Autonomic nervous system dysregulation (where the body can remain in a heightened “stress response” state)

The approach typically combines:

1. Lymphatic drainage techniques (including work around the spine, chest, and body) to encourage fluid movement and support drainage pathways

2. Gentle cranial techniques, used to support cranial and upper drainage mechanisms

3. Support for autonomic regulation, aiming to help the nervous system settle when it remains over-activated after illness

Some patients report that this framework helps them make sense of symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, headaches, and widespread aches—particularly when symptoms fluctuate or worsen with stress, poor sleep, or overexertion.

What to expect from a Perrin Technique treatment plan

A Perrin Technique programme is usually structured, and many patients are typically seen weekly at the start, with treatment frequency reviewed over time depending on individual presentation and response.

It is also important for patients to be aware that temporary symptom flare-ups can occur, particularly early in care, before more stable improvement is noticed. Responses vary, and no single approach is suitable for every patient. The clinic’s role is to assess whether the approach is clinically appropriate and to tailor care accordingly.

Pacing and day-to-day management

Because Long COVID symptoms can fluctuate, general exercise-led recovery advice is not always appropriate. Many patients benefit more from pacing, energy management, and Perrin Technique self-care guidance recommended by the treating practitioner. Any movement advice should be patient-specific and only introduced when clinically indicated.

Seeking support

Patients who feel they have not fully recovered after COVID-19—particularly those experiencing persistent fatigue, breathlessness, dizziness, pain, or cognitive symptoms—may benefit from a clinical assessment. A private clinic can help clarify patterns of symptoms, explore suitable supportive care, and advise on appropriate next steps, including when medical review is needed.

It is acceptable to note that Rakhee Osteopathy has twice been awarded for excellence in the practice of The Perrin Technique by Dr Raymond Perrin, and that many patients report valuing the Perrin Technique as part of their private Long COVID symptom management.