Long COVID, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), affects millions worldwide. Symptoms like fatigue, brain fog, breathlessness, and lingering pain can persist for weeks or even months after the initial infection. For those searching for alternative solutions to manage these challenges, acupuncture offers a promising path to recovery.
What is Long COVID?
Long COVID is a condition where symptoms of COVID-19 continue beyond the acute phase of the infection. Common symptoms include:
Fatigue: Persistent exhaustion unrelated to activity.
Shortness of breath: Difficulty catching your breath.
Brain fog: Struggles with focus and memory.
Body aches: Lingering muscular or joint pain.
With no one-size-fits-all treatment, many are exploring holistic therapies like acupuncture to regain balance and health.
How Acupuncture Helps with Long COVID
Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to promote healing and restore balance. Here’s how it may help with long COVID:
1. Improves Energy and Reduces Fatigue
Fatigue is often linked to a deficiency or stagnation of Qi (energy) in TCM. Acupuncture works to replenish Qi and enhance its flow, helping patients feel more energised.
2. Supports Respiratory Function
Acupuncture points around the chest and upper body can help open the lungs, ease breathlessness, and enhance oxygenation—a crucial benefit for those experiencing lingering respiratory issues.
3. Eases Inflammation and Pain
Studies suggest acupuncture may reduce inflammation and alleviate chronic pain, which are common in long COVID. This is achieved by stimulating the release of natural painkillers and anti-inflammatory substances in the body.
4. Promotes Mental Clarity
Brain fog, a hallmark symptom of long COVID, may stem from poor blood flow or imbalanced Qi in TCM. Acupuncture treatments target these imbalances, helping patients regain focus and clarity.
5. Regulates the Nervous System
Acupuncture helps activate the parasympathetic (rest-and-digest) nervous system, reducing stress and promoting overall relaxation—essential for recovery from chronic conditions.
Evidence-Based Results
Research is growing on acupuncture’s effectiveness for post-viral fatigue and inflammation. Patients often report feeling more balanced, experiencing fewer symptoms, and enjoying a better quality of life after a course of acupuncture treatments.
Lam et al. (2024) conducted systematic review and meta-analysis of 110 randomised controlled trials found acupuncture effective in treating neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms common in long COVID, such as fatigue, depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, headache, and insomnia. Acupuncture significantly improved scores on clinical scales like the Fatigue Scale, Hamilton Depression Rating Scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index. It outperformed medications and sham acupuncture in many areas, suggesting it is a beneficial complementary approach for managing long COVID symptoms.
Williams and Moramaco (2022) identified acupuncture as a promising, evidence-based treatment for managing Long COVID within integrative medicine. Affecting up to 40% of COVID-19 cases, Long COVID presents symptoms like fatigue, chronic pain, and mood changes. Acupuncture has historical roots in treating febrile illnesses and growing evidence supports its efficacy for viral symptoms. It can improve quality of life, help manage symptoms, and potentially shorten the duration of Long COVID when used as part of a multidisciplinary approach.
Lifen et al. (2023) state that acupuncture may help alleviate COVID-19 symptoms by reducing immune and neuroinflammatory reactions, oxidative stress, and HPA axis activity. It improves lung function and addresses respiratory, digestive, nervous, and psychological issues. Acupuncture may also regulate intestinal flora, mitochondrial function, and neurotransmitter release while alleviating vascular conditions.
What to Expect from Acupuncture for Long COVID
A typical session involves:
A detailed consultation to understand your symptoms.
Targeted acupuncture tailored to your specific needs.
Lifestyle advice, including dietary tips and stress management, to complement the treatment.
Find Relief Today
If you’ve been searching for “acupuncture for long COVID near me,” know that acupuncture is a safe, non-invasive, and personalised treatment that addresses the root cause of symptoms.
Take control of your recovery—schedule an acupuncture session today to experience its benefits for long COVID firsthand.
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