Acupuncture Treatment of Long-COVID: A Narrative Review of Selected Case Studies and Review Articles

Abstract

Background: Long-COVID is the “long tail” of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Even though surges in cases have occurred since early 2020, overall, the Pandemic is in decline. However, a chronic form emerged that affects millions and without any sign of letting up. Diagnosis of Long-COVID is illusive. No specific drug safely and effectively addresses this condition. Restoring health and the search for relief became essentially the responsibility of patients and self-help groups. Acupuncture has proven safe and effective in symptom management and may flatten the disease progression curve. Objective: To systematically review reports and case studies since 2020 to evaluate the safety and efficacy of acupuncture for the management of Long-COVID. Results: The author reports on three review papers and two case studies. All results support the thesis that acupuncture is an effective and safe treatment for Long-COVID. Acupuncture provides symptom relief and may shorten the duration of illness. Conclusions: Acupuncture is a safe and effective treatment for managing Long-COVID.