Robin McNelis is a specialist physiotherapist who pioneered the technique of ‘micro-pacing’ based on Long COVID and ME/CFS scientific research and his knowledge of exercise physiology. This technique is being used to safely rehabilitate patients to increase activity without inducing post-exertional malaise (PEM).
Robin offers reviews for patients on the waiting list for a consultant appointment or after the initial assessment on the recommendation of Dr Kane. He works with both adults and children.
Traditionally referrals are made to Physiotherapy and other therapies after patients have been assessed and investigated by Consultants. However, Long Covid is not like most other conditions and different approaches are proving beneficial to patients and clinicians alike.
Maintaining stable circadian patterns also promotes better sleep quality, which is key to reducing persistent fatigue and supporting mental well-being. Circadian-aligned sleep helps the body produce melatonin and growth hormones that are vital for recovery. Further, regular sleep, meal, and activity schedules help to balance hormones like cortisol, supporting sustained energy and a healthy stress response, which are often disrupted in long COVID.
Finally, circadian rhythms play a role in metabolism by regulating when the body best digests and absorbs nutrients, an advantage for those managing long COVID-related energy and digestive issues.
Long Covid has a wide range of symptoms which can be overwhelming and all-encompassing for patients when they have their first contact with The Long Covid Clinic. Many of these symptoms can be identified, explained and managed through working with Robin so that when you do see Dr Kane, the exact problems are clearer, often resulting in more targeted investigations and treatments which can save time as well as money. Below are some examples of ways that Robin can help whilst you are preparing for your appointment with Dr Kane. The majority of sessions are delivered online so no need to travel, although face to face sessions are available where practical.
One of the most common symptom for many people with Long Covid and similar conditions is Fatigue. Pacing and Micro-Pacing are ways to essentially keep energy in the internal battery and reduce the symptom burden. One of Robin’s areas of expertise is helping people pace more effectively as most people have eased back on many aspects of life, but Robin can help identify and manage inadvertent over-reaching with worsens symptoms and can prevent recovery.
Many of our patients have a Breathing Pattern Disorder, some without realising they have it. Some people have identified a breathing problem but have been doing breathing exercises they have seen on the internet that are actually making them worse. Robin has been working with Breathing Pattern Disorders for more than 25 years and can assess and help to optimise your breathing, even through an online session. A Breathing Pattern Disorder means that you are not breathing in the most optimal way (breathing too much or with the wrong muscles), which can produce respiratory, cardiac and even neurological symptoms. Considering Breathing Retraining to have breathing optimised before your appointment with Dr Kane will give her a clearer picture of what is really going on and help you work on improving your symptoms.
Many patients with Long COVID either have POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) or similar conditions which mean they have abnormal responses in heart rate, blood pressure or symptoms related primarily to changes in posture. Robin can help to guide patients through the self-management side to these presentations by employing established lifestyle strategies so that the presentation is as well controlled as possible for your initial appointment with the doctor and therefore any medications that may be required will be more effective at the lowest dose necessary for you as an individual.
If you know or suspect that there is a medical problem which needs to be addressed, in most cases this approach will work. Using the above techniques can help to manage underlying condition by giving you ways of controlling your symptoms whilst waiting to receive top quality medical treatment. Robin can also take any concerns back to the wider team at The Long Covid Clinic if he feels there is something that just doesn’t feel right or can refer onto another one of our expert team who is better suited to help with your problems if it is outside his scope of practice, ensuring you receive the best Holistic Care.
Understood, Validated and Hope are three of the most common words that people say to Robin at the end his initial session. So many patients have come to The Long Covid Clinic because they have not had good experiences elsewhere and find it beneficial to speak to someone who really understands from both a clinical and personal point of view and is able to recognise that all our journeys are unique to us as individuals
The initial consultation is online and thereafter consultations are decision based.
Consultations can be provided for non-UK residents but we do not prescribe outside of the UK.
The new patient process is designed to be as thorough as possible. Many patients have been unwell for many years and have been under a number of different NHS and private healthcare services. In order to provide a comprehensive assessment and report, your consultant requires all the relevant information.
Please note: Variations to the Steps can be accommodated depending on individual circumstances.
For more information here is Dr Kane and Robin’s Livestream discussion.
The Long COVID Clinic website is intended for informational purposes only. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content presented should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical guidance.
This platform offers a means to book an appointment with qualified healthcare professionals who can assess your condition in person. If you are experiencing a medical emergency or urgent symptoms, please call 999 or visit your nearest emergency department immediately.
Always consult a licensed medical practitioner for any concerns related to your health.
More information on this is available here.