The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the lives of millions worldwide. While most people who contract the virus recover within a few weeks, many others experience prolonged symptoms that can last for months. This condition, known as “long COVID,” can be incredibly debilitating, affecting everything from breathing to cognitive function.
Although there is currently no cure for long COVID, there are treatments for easing symptoms and promoting patient recovery. One such treatment is acupuncture, a technique that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of ailments.
In this article, we will explore how acupuncture works and how it can help unlock the healing power of the body to overcome the lingering effects of long COVID.
What is Acupuncture and How Does it Work?
Acupuncture involves inserting thin needles into specific points in the body to activate the circulation of energy, commonly known as Qi. According to the principles of acupuncture, when the Qi is flowing smoothly, the body is balanced and healthy. If the flow of Qi is blocked, it may result in sickness and ailments. An acupuncturist can restore balance to the body by unblocking the Qi through the insertion of needles into specific points along the meridians of the body.
From chronic pain to anxiety and depression, a broad spectrum of illnesses have been treated using acupuncture. Although it is not fully understood how acupuncture works, studies have shown that it can stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, reduce inflammation, and regulate the nervous system.
Long COVID Condition
People who have been infected with COVID may have experienced one or more long-term effects. Common symptoms of long COVID include:
- Fatigue
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Brain fog
- Joint pain
- Heart palpitation
- Headache
- Altered sense of smell
- Dizziness when standing
- Stomach pain
- Sleep problems
- Rashes
- Changes in menstrual cycles (for women)
Benefits of Acupuncture for Long COVID Patients
Acupuncture can offer a range of benefits to patients with long COVID. It can help improve lung function, reduce inflammation, and regulate the immune system. In addition to alleviating fatigue, headaches, and other life-quality affecting symptoms, acupuncture also aids in managing emotional and cognitive symptoms associated with long COVID, like brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
Acupuncture has also been shown to have a beneficial impact on the nervous system, thereby assisting with the cognitive and emotional symptoms of long COVID. It can decrease stress and anxiety, enhance sleep, and promote general wellness.
One of the benefits of acupuncture is that it is a non-invasive and drug-free treatment. This can be especially important for patients who are already taking multiple medications and may be hesitant to add more. Acupuncture is also a safe treatment with few side effects.
Acupuncture Treatment Plan for Long Covid
The treatment plan for long COVID patients will vary depending on the individual’s symptoms and overall health. Typically, an acupuncturist will begin with a comprehensive evaluation to assess the patient’s health and determine the best course of treatment.
In an acupuncture session, specific points along the body’s meridians are punctured with fine needles by the acupuncturist. The needles are allowed to remain in place for about 20–30 minutes, which may elicit a gentle tingling sensation or a feeling of profound relaxation for the patient.
For most patients, a series of acupuncture sessions is necessary to achieve a noticeable improvement in their symptoms. The number of sessions required is contingent upon the gravity of the symptoms and the individual’s general health.
Acupuncture is just one of many complementary treatments that can be used to support the body’s natural healing processes during a long COVID recovery. Other treatments may include herbal medicine, massage therapy, and dietary changes.
Success Stories of Long COVID Patients
Numerous instances exist of long COVID patients who have received acupuncture treatment and have experienced significant improvements in their symptoms:
A Massachusetts resident who got COVID in 2020 tried different pharmaceuticals to ease her COVID symptoms but none of these had any effect. Two years later, in May 2022, she started acupuncture treatment, and three months later her migraines had reduced and most of her other long-standing symptoms had been resolved.
- Case Study #2
A resident in California got infected with COVID and suffered many of its long-term effects, such as high blood pressure, chest pain, heart palpitations, headaches, and dark spots in her vision. She took over-the-counter medications and painkillers to treat her ailments, but it was when she tried acupuncture that she felt calmer and her palpitations stopped.
How to Find an Acupuncturist for Long COVID Patients in South Florida
If you are interested in trying acupuncture for long COVID, it is important to find a qualified and experienced acupuncturist. Look for an acupuncturist who is licensed and certified by a reputable organization. Our Gainesville acupuncturist, Dr. Guan at Guan Physical Therapy and Acupuncture, is experienced in treating many painful conditions, including long COVID. Dr. Weiwei Guan has been trained with the knowledge and experience obtained from treating hundreds of thousands of patients by five generations of Drs. Guan in more than 130 years.
If you are looking for a clinic providing Chinese medicine in Gainesville FL, look no further. Our world-class expert in acupuncture will work closely with you to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. With the right care and support, patients with long COVID can recover and return to their everyday lives.
At Guan Physical Therapy and Acupuncture, we offer acupuncture treatment for other conditions such as:
- Acupuncture for dizziness and vertigo
- Acupuncture for chronic fatigue syndrome
- Acupuncture for knee pain
And more!
For any inquiries, you can contact us at (352) 353-0288 or schedule a discovery visit.
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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and DOES NOT CONSTITUTE THE PROVIDING OF MEDICAL ADVICE, and is not intended to be a substitute for independent professional medical judgment, advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health.
