The Perrin Technique

At Health & Balance Osteopathy we offer the Perrin Technique. A gentle, targeted osteopathic approach developed specifically for those living with ME/CFS (chronic fatigue syndrome), and Fibromyalgia.

This method supports the body’s natural ability to regulate the autonomic nervous system, improve lymphatic flow, and ease the physical strain associated with chronic fatigue and pain conditions.

What Is the Perrin Technique?


The Perrin Technique is a specialised manual therapy created by Dr. Raymond Perrin (Osteopath and neuroscientist). It focuses on helping the body clear toxins from the central nervous system by improving the movement of lymphatic, venous, and cerebrospinal fluids. Practitioners use specific diagnostic markers unique to ME/CFS and fibromyalgia to assess patterns of congestion and mechanical stress.


This technique is gentle, structured, and holistic, working with the body’s natural systems to promote better health, energy, and balance.

How the Perrin Technique Works

According to the Perrin model, ME/CFS and fibromyalgia may be linked to:

  • Dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system
  • Impaired lymphatic drainage and fluid stagnation
  • Accumulation of inflammatory by-products around the brain and spinal cord
  • Mechanical strain in the spine, chest, diaphragm, and cranium

How the Perrin Technique helps:

  • Gentle osteopathic mobilisation of the spine and ribcage
  • Manual techniques to stimulate lymphatic and venous drainage
  • Cranial and abdominal work to optimise fluid movement
  • Postural corrections to reduce mechanical load
  • A guided self-massage routine to continue progress at home
  • Over time, many clients report improvements in pain, energy levels, cognitive clarity, and overall wellbeing.

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Loose, comfortable clothing is ideal. We may ask you to remove outer layers to access the ribcage, collarbone area, and upper chest—always maintaining privacy and comfort.

This varies from person to person. Many clients benefit from regular sessions over several months. Your osteopath will discuss a plan based on your symptoms, energy levels, and treatment response. Some mild cases can be resolved in a few months, more severe cases will take longer.

At the beginning of treatment, you will have a treatment once a week. As your symptoms improve, there will be a gradual increase in the period between consultations.

Yes. Many clinicians use this method to support those with post-viral fatigue, including Long COVID-related symptoms, although individual needs vary.

Yes. The technique often complements pacing strategies, sleep support, gentle movement, and other osteopathic care.

Our practitioners are fully Qualified Osteopaths with decades of clinical experience. Both Lizzy and Tammy have completed the intensive Perrin practitioner training under the training of Dr Raymond Perrin (Osteopath and Neuroscientist). Both Lizzy and Tammy are Licensed and registered Perrin Technique Practitioners.

You can call the clinic on 03 9999 8075 to make an appointment, ask any questions and discuss if Perrin technique is appropriate for you. You can also make an appointment online.

Allow one hour for your appointment. In the initial appointment we will take a comprehensive case history and do a physical assessment. A diagnosis will be made based on the symptoms and the physical findings of CFS/ME and we will discuss an appropriate treatment plan. Please note there is no treatment or manual therapy performed in this initial consultation. Based on the findings we will discuss a treatment plan, prognosis and advise you on specific supplements, lifestyle changes along with gentle exercises that you can begin to implement. 

In your follow up appointments you will be shown the self-massage routine that you will be required to perform each day as a supplement to your in clinic treatment. We will also begin manual lymphatic drainage techniques which are performed on the back, head, neck and chest. While we endeavour to make you feel as comfortable and safe as possible during the treatment consults, it is important to know that one component of the lymphatic drainage is performed on the breast tissue. We recommend all clients have a support person or chaperone for the first manual therapy consultation to ensure they feel comfortable. You will be given an opportunity to ask questions and discuss any concerns. If you are unable to bring a support person please contact the clinic before the consultation so we can discuss. 

Many Perrin technique patients do improve immediately with very few side effects or worsening of the condition. However, it is common for symptoms to increase or amplify when you first start your course of Perrin technique treatments. This is due to the toxins that we are mobilising out of the central nervous system and through the lymphatic drainage. It can be common to feel nausea, headaches, general pain, and experience spots, boils and skin problems.