We have recently seen an increase in the number of patients coming in with post-COVID conditions, from symptoms that either never resolved or new ones that arose after the acute illness had passed. We’ve been able to help several patients fully recover, with others improving, and I wanted to share why I think Chinese medicine (CM) is so well suited to treat these post viral patterns, and chronic, lingering illness in general.
Treatments can regulate a stressed out system
Acupuncture, herbal medicine and moxibustion can all be used to regulate immunity, reduce inflammation, and improve the function of interrelated systems in our bodies. They help to synchronize natural cycles of our day (digestion, sleep/wake), months (hormonal) and years (more subtle seasonal cycles and shifts), and include our emotions in the sum-total of our wellbeing. Health is not just measured in the absence of pathology, but in how we feel, our ability to function well in our world, and our resilience in the face of challenges.
The recovery phase is important
Recovery is recognized as an important phase of treatment in CM. Illness, injury, surgeries and birth all take a lot of resources that our bodies need to replenish once the acute experience has passed. This is a time when we are generally weaker, or not quite right, and may need more support for a complete recovery.
Long history of use during epidemics and their aftermath
As one of the oldest, and most widely used traditional medicines in the world, Chinese medicine has proven to be adaptable, effective and enduring. Although we don’t treat viruses per se, we do treat the patterns that result from a viral infection, supporting our bodies to process what arises (i.e. cough, fever, body aches) in order to reduce potential severity and speed recovery.
Some conditions we have had success treating include:
- blood pressure anomalies
- loss of taste and smell
- lingering weakness and fatigue
- recurrent fevers
- lingering chills
If you have any questions about symptoms you are experiencing, and how we might help, please give us a call.
(530) 243-5230