Some people continue to experience symptoms after recovering from COVID-19. This is often referred to as Post-COVID Syndrome (PCS), or “long COVID”.
These symptoms can last for weeks or months and may affect daily life.
Common symptoms
Post-COVID symptoms can vary from person to person. They may include:
- fatigue
- headaches
- difficulty concentrating
- shortness of breath
- sleep disturbance
- changes in heart rhythm or chest discomfort
In some cases, more serious conditions may occur, which require medical attention.
A broader approach to care
Because symptoms can vary, management often involves more than one approach.
This may include input from:
- general practitioners
- medical specialists
- physiotherapists
- and other healthcare providers
Working across different areas can help address the range of symptoms involved.
Where acupuncture may fit
Some research has explored the use of acupuncture as part of a broader care plan for post-COVID symptoms.
A published report described its use alongside other therapies, such as graded physical activity, within a multidisciplinary approach (Trager et al., 2022).
In that report, individual cases suggested improvements in symptoms such as relaxation, chest discomfort, and general wellbeing. However, further research is still needed.
Important note
If you are experiencing ongoing symptoms after COVID-19, it is important to consult with your GP or healthcare provider for proper assessment.
Acupuncture may be considered as a complementary approach alongside medical care, depending on your situation.
References
Trager, R. J., Brewka, E. C., Kaiser, C. M., Patterson, A. J., & Dusek, J. A. (2022). Acupuncture in multidisciplinary treatment for post-COVID-19 syndrome. Medical Acupuncture, 34(3), 177–183. https://doi.org/10.1089/acu.2021.0086