Can Acupuncture Help With Long-Haul COVID?
See my previous coverage of Long Haul COVID.
I saw an acupuncturist last week, because so far conventional medicine has had nothing to offer for me, not even passing interest in addressing it.
I chose acupuncture because it has the potential to address nervous system disfunction, which I deem a key driver of my symptoms the past year. But while some symptoms have greatly improved (lung function perfect, brain fog gone), others have not (fatigue, excessive need for sleep).
I felt great for a few hours after acupuncture last week, and I did see several days of slightly improved energy allowing for slow short bike rides (400 calories or so at a ~180 watts, vs my longstanding baseline of 1050 calories at ~210 watts). Then I slid into an energy “hole” for two days, and then today I bounced up to my best effort level (15% below baseline effort, but the full baseline ride).
Did acupuncture help? Inconclusive as yet, but it was deeply relaxing. I have 3 more visits before I make a call on its usefulness.