Chronic Fatigue Syndrome or M.E. (Myalgic Encephalomyelitis) presents itself in many different ways with symptoms ranging from headaches to intense lethargy, muscular pains to mental confusion, and general weakness to disturbed sleep.
For the past 20 years Raymond Perrin, a Manchester based osteopath, has been researching Chronic Fatigue and the way in which osteopathic treatment can help suffers with this debilitating illness. His work suggests that upper back problems, either through previous injury or chronic postural strain are commonly found in this patient group. It has been suggested that the chronic stiffness leads to irritation of the Sympathetic Nervous System with which this area is closely linked. The lymphatic vessels, which form the bodys' natural waste disposal system, eventually become involved as a result of the chronic tension and consequent breakdown in control from the sympathetic nerves. The M.E. sufferer is left with a clogged and toxic lymphatic system, chronic muscular tension patterns over the upper back and rib cage and a poor breathing mechanism.
Osteopathy alone will not 'cure' M.E. The treatment has to be backed up with a programme of self help measures which may include simple exercise regimes and breathing techniques, postural advice, hydrotherapy approaches, dietary advice and general health promotion ideas.
No two M.E. sufferers are the same and treatment programmes have to be tailored to the individual needs of each patient. Recovery takes time with such a chronic condition but in each case full involvement in the regime is encouraged, as this will speed the recovery process.
For more information about Raymond Perrins treatment approaches and research follow the link: www.theperrinclinic.com