Acupuncture
What is it: A targeted needle procedure applying precise, standardized body points.- ⬤ Minimal research: Very little scientific study exists, with no or very few peer-reviewed studies. Insufficient data for conclusions.
- ⬤⬤ Limited research: Few studies exist, mostly small trials or case reports. Findings are preliminary and lack strong validation.
- ⬤⬤⬤ Moderately researched: Multiple studies, including mid-sized trials, exist. Some findings are replicated, but more research is needed.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Well-researched: Supported by substantial evidence, including at least one large trial or meta-analysis.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ Extensively studied: Numerous large studies and meta-analyses exist. Findings are widely accepted with strong scientific consensus.
- ⬤ Extremely Difficult to Access: Rare, experimental, or highly specialized. Requires multiple referrals, long wait times, travel, and strict follow-up.
- ⬤⬤ Difficult to Access: Limited to select centers with moderate barriers. Requires referral, potential travel, and wait times of weeks to months.
- ⬤⬤⬤ Moderately Accessible: Available in larger hospitals or clinics. Requires a basic referral, with moderate wait times and some coordination.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Easy to Access: Widely available in most clinics. Minimal referral, short wait times, and simple preparation or follow-up.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ Trivial to Access: Easily found in pharmacies or clinics. No referral needed, minimal wait, and straightforward access.
- ⬤ Up to $100
- ⬤⬤ Up to $500
- ⬤⬤⬤ Up to $2000
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Up to $10,000
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ More than $10,000
To calculate the reported effectiveness for a patient view, the model first analyses whether it can be ascertained that the person writing the review has had direct experience of the treatment for themselves or a loved one. If so, it then uses sentiment analysis to rate their view from 1-5 on how effective this treatment was for them, with 1 being the least effective, and 5 the most effective.
4 Resources
Referenced in this guide
40 Research papers
Referenced in this guide
4 Expert views
Contributed in this guide
40 Patient views
Contributed in this guide
Figure out what Acupuncture means for you
Page contents
Basics: What you need to know
Needle-based Acupuncture is a recognized system deeply rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, using fine, sterile needles inserted into standardized acupoints to address a variety of symptoms. Certified practitioners follow established protocols and international guidelines, such as those set by the WHO, to ensure safety and consistency. In recent years, it has been increasingly explored to help manage persistent issues like pain, fatigue, and autonomic dysregulation that can linger after certain viral illnesses. By aiming to balance the body’s energy flow, or 'Qi,' this method is believed by many to promote overall healing and well-being.
History and development
- Ancient roots: Usage dates back over 2,000 years in China, evolving from classical texts such as the Huangdi Neijing.
- Refined needle design: Modernization involved creating thinner, disposable needles, with practitioners like Dr. Cheng Dan’an pioneering safer instruments.
- WHO standardization: International guidelines now define recognized acupoints, enhancing training consistency worldwide.
- Expansion to clinics: Over time, hospitals and alternative care centers integrated it as a supportive therapy for chronic conditions.
- Ongoing research: Contemporary studies explore its application for emerging health challenges, including persistent viral aftereffects.
What is known
- Symptom relief: Many patients report reduced pain, fatigue, and improved mental clarity.
- Autonomic benefits: Studies suggest it may help regulate heart rate and blood pressure, offering relief from dizziness or palpitations.
- Standardized practice: Certified practitioners use single-use sterile needles and follow strict protocols to minimize risks.
- Complementary therapy: It often complements conventional care, such as physical therapy or medication regimens.
- Potential triggers: Some individuals may experience temporary flare-ups of symptoms, highlighting the need for careful practitioner oversight.
What is not known
- Exact mechanism: Researchers have yet to pinpoint how needle insertion interacts with nerves and pathways to alleviate symptoms.
- Long-term efficacy: While short-term improvements are documented, data on sustained benefits over months or years remains limited.
- Variability in response: Results can differ greatly among individuals, making it difficult to predict outcomes.
- Optimal protocols: The best frequency, duration, and point combinations for specific post-viral symptoms are still debated.
- Interaction with other treatments: How it works alongside other interventions, such as immunotherapy or rehabilitation, needs further clarification.
- Insertion at acupoints: Sterile needles are gently placed at specific points, influencing local tissue responses.
- Energy flow modulation: Traditional theory holds that this process balances 'Qi' for holistic well-being.
- Stimulates nerve pathways: Research indicates it can trigger biochemical reactions that inhibit pain signals.
- Promotes circulation: Some studies suggest improved blood flow and tissue oxygenation at treated sites.
- Regulates stress hormones: Observations point to decreased cortisol levels, potentially easing mental strain.
- Minimal discomfort: Minor soreness or bruising at the needle sites can occur.
- Possible dizziness: Rarely, individuals may feel lightheaded during or after sessions.
- Infection risk: Proper sterilization greatly reduces this risk, but it remains a concern.
- Needle fear: Anxiety surrounding needling can heighten stress responses in some people.
- Worsening symptoms: Certain patients report brief intensification of discomfort before improvement.
- Variable study outcomes: Some trials show clear benefits, while others find minimal changes.
- Placebo effect debate: Critics argue that perceived improvement may be linked to patient expectation.
- Cultural acceptance gap: In regions unfamiliar with the practice, skepticism remains prevalent.
- Integration challenges: Standardizing training and protocols can be difficult across diverse healthcare systems.
- Ethical considerations: Using it in clinical settings often depends on regulatory guidance and patient preference.
Patient views
Experiences
- Many patients report acupuncture helps with brain fog, providing mental clarity.
- Some find it calms the nervous system, improving sleep and reducing stress.
- A few patients experience relief from specific symptoms like headaches, joint pain, and light/sound sensitivity.
- Others appreciate the holistic approach and relaxation during sessions.
Challenges
- Several patients find no improvement in symptoms, even after months of treatment.
- Some experience post-exertional malaise (PEM) or worsened fatigue from attending sessions.
- A few mention the high cost and time commitment as barriers to continuing treatment.
- Pain from needles or discomfort during sessions is a concern for some.
Tips
- Communicate with the practitioner to adjust treatment for better results.
- Consider combining acupuncture with other therapies for enhanced benefits.
- Be prepared for ongoing sessions to maintain any positive effects.
- Start treatment when energy levels allow for travel to appointments.
To calculate the reported effectiveness for a patient view, the model first analyses whether it can be ascertained that the person writing the review has had direct experience of the treatment for themselves or a loved one. If so, it then uses sentiment analysis to rate their view from 1-5 on how effective this treatment was for them, with 1 being the least effective, and 5 the most effective.
Patient view
Acupuncture helped me
September 2024 • /r/covidlonghaulers
Patient view
Acupuncture has helped me immensely
September 2024 • /r/covidlonghaulers
Expert views
What they liked
- Experts appreciate acupuncture's relaxing experience for patients.
- Seen as effective for balancing nervous system responses.
- Neuroplasticity benefits noted in stroke and Long Covid recovery.
- Boosts local circulation and immune response at needle sites.
What they didn't like
- Some experts find acupuncture unappealing personally.
- Needle phobia may deter certain patients.
- Limited appeal for those preferring self-administered treatments.
- Requires trained practitioners, not a DIY option.
What are they unsure about
- Experts question its impact on kidney energy in Long Covid.
- Uncertainty about acupuncture's exact mechanisms in recovery.
- Effectiveness varies widely among individuals.
- Long-term benefits for Long Covid remain unclear.
4 expert views
Expert view
Dr. Elizabeth So explains that acupuncture can be a relaxing and effective treatment for Long Covid. She highlights its ability to regulate the autonomic nervous system, promoting a parasympathetic state that helps the body produce beneficial hormones instead of stress-related ones like cortisol. Acupuncture also boosts circulation and triggers local immune responses, which can aid tissue repair. Additionally, it has neuroplastic effects, which are particularly beneficial for conditions like Long Covid and stroke rehabilitation, as it helps the brain and nervous system adapt and recover.
March 2024 • Long Covid Podcast
Expert view
Caroline Pover shared her experience with acupuncture as part of her treatment for Long Covid. She mentioned that an acupuncturist introduced her to an ancient form of Chinese bloodletting, which is a specific type of acupuncture. Caroline found this approach helpful, as it seemed to improve her quality of life. She also discussed the connection between kidney energy in Chinese medicine and Long Covid symptoms, suggesting that individuals with depleted kidney energy might benefit from exploring treatments in Chinese medicine.
May 2023 • Long Covid Podcast
What and who it targets
Chronic pain sufferers
Effective for pain relief and management.
Sleep-deprived individuals
Improves sleep quality and relaxation.
Brain fog patients
Supports mental clarity and focus.
Fatigue-dominant cases
Promotes energy flow and relaxation.
Relevant research
How much evidence on this?
- Acupuncture studied for Long Covid since 2020; growing interest.
- 10+ studies on acupuncture for Long Covid symptoms.
- Systematic reviews/meta-analyses available; mixed quality.
- Research includes pilot trials and case studies.
Research focusing on
- Acupuncture improves fatigue, anxiety, and sleep in Long Covid.
- Post-treatment care includes rest and hydration.
- Techniques vary: scalp, auricular, body acupuncture.
- Researchers exploring molecular mechanisms and brain effects.
What needs more research?
- Long-term effects of acupuncture for Long Covid unclear.
- Optimal frequency and duration of sessions not established.
- Mechanisms of symptom relief still under investigation.
- Limited data on acupuncture's impact on severe Long Covid cases.
- ⬤ Minimal research: Very little scientific study exists, with no or very few peer-reviewed studies. Insufficient data for conclusions.
- ⬤⬤ Limited research: Few studies exist, mostly small trials or case reports. Findings are preliminary and lack strong validation.
- ⬤⬤⬤ Moderately researched: Multiple studies, including mid-sized trials, exist. Some findings are replicated, but more research is needed.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Well-researched: Supported by substantial evidence, including at least one large trial or meta-analysis.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ Extensively studied: Numerous large studies and meta-analyses exist. Findings are widely accepted with strong scientific consensus.
Research
This paper investigated whether acupuncture could help treat neurological and neuropsychiatric symptoms in people with long COVID, such as fatigue, headache, cognitive issues, anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Researchers analyzed data from 110 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) using clinical scales to measure the effectiveness of acupuncture compared to medication, sham acupuncture, or waitlist controls.
The study found that acupuncture significantly improved symptoms like fatigue, depression, cognitive impairment, headache severity, and sleep quality compared to other treatments. For example, acupuncture improved fatigue scores by a mean difference of -3.36 compared to sham acupuncture and reduced depression scores by -9.47 on the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale compared to sham acupuncture.
For someone living with long COVID, this study suggests that acupuncture might be a helpful treatment option for managing persistent symptoms like fatigue, depression, and sleep issues. It provides hope for improving quality of life when other treatments may not be effective.
This paper is reliable as it is a systematic review and meta-analysis, which are considered high-quality evidence types. It was published in a reputable journal, 'Frontiers in Neurology,' and included a large number of RCTs, enhancing its credibility.
August 2024 • Frontiers in neurology
Research
This paper examined the use of acupuncture as a treatment for Long-COVID symptoms in a single patient, a 46-year-old male. The study aimed to identify the range of symptoms, establish a diagnostic framework based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and evaluate the effectiveness of acupuncture.
The study found that acupuncture was associated with a reduction in symptoms and signs of Long-COVID in the patient. It also proposed a preliminary TCM diagnostic structure for Long-COVID, including patterns like Lung Qi and Yin Deficiency, Qi and Blood Stagnation, and Spleen Qi Deficiency with dampness.
For individuals living with Long-COVID, this study suggests that acupuncture might be a helpful treatment option to alleviate symptoms. It also provides a potential diagnostic framework for understanding Long-COVID through the lens of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
As a case study, the findings are based on a single patient and cannot be generalized to all individuals with Long-COVID. The journal 'Medical Acupuncture' is specialized in the field, but further research with larger sample sizes is needed to confirm the efficacy of acupuncture for Long-COVID.
July 2022 • Medical acupuncture
Accessibility
- ⬤ Extremely Difficult to Access: Rare, experimental, or highly specialized. Requires multiple referrals, long wait times, travel, and strict follow-up.
- ⬤⬤ Difficult to Access: Limited to select centers with moderate barriers. Requires referral, potential travel, and wait times of weeks to months.
- ⬤⬤⬤ Moderately Accessible: Available in larger hospitals or clinics. Requires a basic referral, with moderate wait times and some coordination.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Easy to Access: Widely available in most clinics. Minimal referral, short wait times, and simple preparation or follow-up.
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ Trivial to Access: Easily found in pharmacies or clinics. No referral needed, minimal wait, and straightforward access.
- ⬤ Up to $100
- ⬤⬤ Up to $500
- ⬤⬤⬤ Up to $2000
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤ Up to $10,000
- ⬤⬤⬤⬤⬤ More than $10,000
Method to access
- Book appointments directly with licensed acupuncturists or clinics specializing in Long Covid.
- Some clinics offer telehealth consultations to discuss treatment plans.
- Community acupuncture clinics may provide more affordable options.
Cost
- In the U.S., sessions typically cost $75–$125, with initial consultations ranging from $100–$150.
- In the UK, sessions range from £50–£120.
- In India, costs are INR 800–1000 per session.
- Community clinics may charge as low as $25 per session.
Insurance cover
- Insurance coverage varies; some plans cover acupuncture for chronic pain or nausea.
- Medicare in the U.S. covers limited sessions for chronic low back pain.
- Patients should verify coverage with their provider, as Long Covid-specific coverage is not guaranteed.
Locations
- Health Traditions Acupuncture, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Yi Acu Clinic, Boston, MA, USA.
- Medelit Home Visit Services, UK.
- Acupuncture clinics registered with the British Acupuncture Council.
- Community acupuncture centers worldwide.
Related clinical trials
Frequently asked questions
Key resources
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