As the world continues to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, an increasing number of people are facing the challenges of Long COVID. This condition, also known as post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC), manifests as a range of symptoms that persist for weeks, months or years after the initial infection.
If you’re among those grappling with Long COVID, you may be exploring effective treatment options to regain your health and vitality. Acupuncture, a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), offers a natural and holistic approach to managing Long COVID symptoms. Here in Oakland, acupuncture is emerging as a valuable tool in addressing the multifaceted challenges of this condition.
What Is Long COVID?
Because COVID is a vascular disease, Long COVID can affect virtually every system in the body, with symptoms ranging from fatigue and brain fog to shortness of breath, muscle pain, and persistent cough. Other common complaints include:
Postural Orthostatic Hypotension (POTS)
Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
Post-Exertion Malaise
Sleep disturbances
Orthopedic/Muscular Pain
Anxiety or depression
Headaches
Fertility issues
Digestive issues
Loss of taste or smell
Heart palpitations
These symptoms can significantly impact daily life and often resist conventional treatments. This is where acupuncture and integrative medicine come into play.
How Acupuncture Supports Long COVID Recovery
Acupuncture involves the insertion of thin, sterile needles into specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, or “Qi,” and restore balance. Acupuncture helps the body initiate a rest & relax state where the brain drops into alpha-theta brainwave states, it’s in this state that the body’s natural self-healing process is activated.
In the context of Long COVID, acupuncture offers several benefits:
Reducing Fatigue and Boosting Energy
Fatigue is one of the most common and debilitating symptoms of Long COVID. Acupuncture addresses energy imbalances by stimulating points associated with vitality and organ function, such as the Spleen and Kidney meridians. Patients often report feeling more energized and less drained after regular acupuncture sessions.
Alleviating Respiratory Issues
Shortness of breath and lingering cough are hallmark symptoms of Long COVID. Acupuncture treatments targeting the Lung meridian can help open airways, improve breathing, and reduce inflammation. Combined with herbal medicine, these treatments can provide additional support for respiratory health.
Enhancing Mental Clarity
Brain fog—a feeling of mental sluggishness—can make it difficult to focus and complete everyday tasks. Acupuncture promotes better circulation to the brain and calms the nervous system, helping to sharpen cognitive function and relieve stress (American Family Physician, 2023).
Managing Pain and Inflammation
Muscle aches, joint pain, and headaches are common in Long COVID patients. Acupuncture’s ability to regulate inflammation and release endorphins makes it an excellent option for pain relief. Specific points like LI4 (Hegu) and GB34 (Yanglingquan) are often used to address discomfort and tension in the body.
Improving Sleep
Insomnia and disrupted sleep patterns are frequently reported by those with Long COVID. By calming the mind and balancing the body’s natural rhythms, acupuncture can enhance sleep quality, helping you wake up feeling rested and rejuvenated.
Supporting Emotional Well-Being
The emotional toll of Long COVID can be significant. Acupuncture helps regulate the nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Techniques such as ear acupuncture and the use of calming points like HT7 (Shenmen) can be particularly effective (American Family Physician, 2023).
Why Choose Acupuncture for Long COVID in Oakland?
Oakland is home to a vibrant community of holistic health practitioners, making it an ideal place to explore acupuncture for Long COVID. Local acupuncturist Dr. Kim Peirano, DACM, LAc, is well-versed in combining ancient techniques with modern knowledge to address the unique needs of Long COVID patients. Here are some reasons why our acupuncture clinic in Oakland stands out:
Personalized Care
Every case of Long COVID is unique. Oakland acupuncturists take the time to assess your specific symptoms and health history, tailoring treatments to your individual needs. This personalized approach ensures that you receive the most effective care possible.
Integrative Approach
Many Oakland acupuncturists work collaboratively with other healthcare providers, creating a comprehensive treatment plan that combines acupuncture with Western medicine, nutrition, physical therapy, and other modalities. This integrative approach can enhance your overall recovery.
Accessibility and Expertise
Oakland’s acupuncture clinics are conveniently located and staffed by experienced practitioners who specialize in treating complex conditions like Long COVID. Whether you’re new to acupuncture or a long-time advocate, you’ll find compassionate care and skilled expertise in Oakland.
What to Expect During an Acupuncture Session for Long COVID
Our commitment to preventing Long COVID begins with proper airborne illness mitigation measures. We always mask in the clinic and have proper ventilation going at all times.
The best way to avboid Long COVID is to not catch COVID in the first place.
Your first acupuncture session will begin with a thorough consultation to discuss your symptoms, medical history, and wellness goals. The practitioner will then design a treatment plan tailored to your needs. Here’s what a typical session might include:
Needle Placement: Thin, sterile needles are inserted into specific points on the body. You may feel a mild sensation or tingling, but the process is generally painless.
Relaxation Time: Once the needles are in place, you’ll relax for 20-30 minutes in a calm, soothing environment. This time allows the treatment to take effect.
Adjunct Therapies: Depending on your symptoms, the practitioner may incorporate other techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, or acupressure to enhance the treatment’s benefits.
Post-Treatment Guidance: After your session, your acupuncturist may provide recommendations for self-care, dietary changes, or herbal supplements to support your recovery.
Supporting Long COVID Recovery Beyond Acupuncture
While acupuncture is a powerful tool, it works best as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Here are additional steps you can take to manage Long COVID symptoms:
Herbal Medicine: Many acupuncturists in Oakland prescribe custom herbal formulas to complement acupuncture treatments.
Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods can support healing.
Rehabilitation Exercise: Gentle movement practices like tai chi, yoga, or walking can improve circulation and energy levels. We also recommend tailored rehabilitation exercises for specific conditions.
Mind-Body Practices: Techniques such as meditation, breathwork, and hypnotherapy can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
Take the Next Step Toward Recovery
If you’re living with Long COVID and searching for effective, holistic treatments in Oakland, acupuncture may be the solution you’ve been seeking. By addressing the root causes of your symptoms and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, acupuncture offers a path toward recovery and renewed vitality.
Ready to take the first step? Contact us today to schedule your consultation or first treatment. With the right support, you can navigate the challenges of Long COVID and reclaim your health.
References
-American Family Physician. (2023). Letter: Acupuncture for Long COVID. Retrieved from https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2023/1000/letter-acupuncture-long-covid.html
-PMC. (2022). Case Report: Acupuncture for Long COVID. Retrieved from https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9248328/