The Effectiveness of Acupuncture in The Treatment of Post COVID-19 Condition: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate the effectiveness and safety of acupuncture in the treatment of post COVID-19 condition (also called long COVID) in 85 cases in eastern Canada. Method: The condition of 85 patients with long COVID was analyzed retrospectively based on their clinical symptoms, diagnosis and classification. 85 cases were divided into 4 categories according to the main symptoms. The number and percentage of clinical symptoms were shortness of breath and general fatigue (35 cases, 41%); body pain (26 cases, 31%); brain fog (17 cases, 20%); and irregular menstrual cycle (7 cases, 8%). 85 patients received acupuncture weekly for 8 to 12 consecutive weeks (from June 2020 to Dec 2021), to tonify lung and kidney qi and strengthen spleen and stomach qi. The acupuncture points used were on the meridians of lung, kidney, spleen, stomach, bladder, the Ren (Conception) and the Du (Governing). Results: Of the 85 patients, 72 cases were clinically cured, and 13 cases were ineffective. The rate of overall effectiveness was 85%. Conclusions: Acupuncture restored the healthy functioning of the lungs, kidney, spleen and brain; significantly decreased the symptoms of post COVID-19 condition; improved the patient's physical condition and quality of life; and enabled patients to go back to work.