For many people who experienced getting sick with COVID-19, getting through symptoms felt like the finish line. But for others, the symptoms did not fully go away. Weeks or even months later, they were still feeling off. This ongoing set of symptoms is what is commonly called “long COVID”.
Long COVID is not the same for everyone. It can look different from person to person and it can affect daily life in ways that are both frustrating and confusing. The good news is that supportive care options like acupuncture may help the body recover and regain balance over time.
What Is Long COVID
Long COVID refers to symptoms that continue or appear after the initial COVID infection has passed. These symptoms can last for weeks or months and sometimes longer. You do not need to have had a severe case of COVID to experience long COVID. Even people who had mild symptoms can be affected.
Researchers are still learning exactly why long COVID happens. What we do know is that it can involve lingering inflammation, nervous system stress, immune system changes, and difficulty with the body’s ability to fully reset after illness.
Common Symptoms of Long COVID
Long COVID can affect many systems in the body. Some of the most commonly reported symptoms include
• Ongoing fatigue that does not improve with rest
• Brain fog or trouble concentrating
• Shortness of breath or chest tightness
• Headaches
• Muscle or joint pain
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety or low mood
• Heart palpitations
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Digestive changes
These symptoms can come and go or shift over time, which can make them even more challenging to manage.
The Emotional and Daily Impact
Living with long COVID can be emotionally draining! Many people feel frustrated, discouraged, or misunderstood. It can be hard when you look fine on the outside but do not feel like yourself on the inside.
Long COVID can affect work, relationships, exercise routines, and overall quality of life. That is why having supportive care that looks at the whole person, not just individual symptoms, can be so important.
How Acupuncture Can Support Someone With Long COVID
Acupuncture is a valuable supportive therapy for many people dealing with lingering symptoms.
Acupuncture works by supporting the body’s natural healing processes. Treatments are designed to help regulate the nervous system, improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and encourage the body to find balance again.
People seeking acupuncture for long COVID often report support with
• Reducing fatigue and improving energy levels
• Supporting better sleep
• Calming the nervous system and easing anxiety
• Improving mental clarity and focus
• Supporting breathing and chest comfort
• Helping manage headaches and body aches
Each treatment plan is personalized. Long COVID looks different for everyone, so care is tailored to the symptoms and goals of each individual!
You Are Not Alone
If you are struggling with long COVID, know that you are not alone. Healing can take time, and having a supportive care team can make the journey feel more manageable.
Acupuncture offers a holistic approach that focuses on supporting your body as a whole, not just chasing symptoms. For many people, it becomes an important part of their recovery process and a step toward feeling more like themselves again.
If you have questions about whether acupuncture could be right for you, we are always happy to talk and help guide you in the right direction. Contact our office today and learn more about what we can do to help you!