Stroke is responsible for increasingly high rates of mortality and disability worldwide. Due to an aging population, dietary changes, and work-related stress, stroke morbidity is on the rise and the age at first occurrence is getting younger

According to the latest data issued by the American Heart Association, each year approximately 600 000 people experience a new stroke and 185 000 a recurrent stroke. 3 Besides resultant mortality, the high incidence (>50%) of poststroke disability brings a heavy burden to patients and their caregivers. 3 In the United States, the total societal and healthcare costs have risen from $53.6 billion in 20042 to $68.9 billion in 2009. 3

The COVID-19 pandemic has been unpredictable as more is learned about the varied side effects of the virus. A typical respiratory infection, such as the flu, usually has a specific set of symptoms and potential complications. With COVID-19, the long-term effects range from neurological complications to loss of taste and smell, trouble focusing (“brain fog”), and chronic fatigue.

Another surprising finding from several studies is the heightened risk of stroke and heart attack—and not just for older adults. People under the age of 50 appear to be at much higher risk of these complications too.

One study published in JAMA in April 2021 found that the risk of stroke was more than twice as high for COVID-19 patients when compared to people of the same age, sex, and ethnicity in the general population—82.6 cases per 100,000 people compared to 38.2 cases for those without a COVID-19 diagnosis. 

In another Swedish study published in the August 14, 2021 issue of The Lancet, researchers found that within a week of a COVID-19 diagnosis, a person’s risk of heart attack was three to eight times higher than normal, and their risk of stroke was three to six times higher. The study revealed these risks remained high for at least a month. The average age of people in the study was only 48 years. The data from those diagnosed was compared with 348,000 Swedish people in a similar age range who did not have the virus.

Acupuncture (Ac) has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for >3000 years as a treatment for many diseases and its use for poststroke rehabilitation in China is based on a large body of preclinical and clinical research. 4 

Acupuncture is a low-risk treatment with purported claims of effectiveness for poststroke rehabilitation. 

A Study published in AHA JOUNRNALS Which is Acupuncture in Poststroke Rehabilitation , A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials Originally published18 Feb 2010 https://doi.org/10.1161/STROKEAHA.109.573576Stroke. 2010;41:e171–e179

to comprehensively assess the efficacy of acupuncture in poststroke rehabilitation, the researchers conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of all randomized clinical trials of acupuncture for poststroke rehabilitation. Their conclusions are randomized clinical trials demonstrate that acupuncture may be effective in the treatment of poststroke rehabilitation.

Understanding Stroke and its Aftermath

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, either due to a clot (ischemic stroke) or a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke). This sudden disruption in blood supply can cause brain cells to become damaged or die, resulting in various physical and cognitive impairments. Common post-stroke effects include weakness or paralysis on one side of the body, difficulty with speech and language, cognitive deficits, and emotional challenges such as depression and anxiety.

The Role of Acupuncture in Post-Stroke Recovery

Pain Management: One of the most immediate benefits of acupuncture for stroke survivors is pain relief. Acupuncture can help alleviate chronic pain and discomfort caused by muscle stiffness, spasticity, or nerve damage, which is common after a stroke. By stimulating specific acupuncture points, it triggers the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, providing relief and improving overall comfort.

Motor Function Improvement: Acupuncture is known to promote blood circulation and improve energy flow (Qi) throughout the body. This enhanced circulation can facilitate the repair and regeneration of damaged nerves and muscle tissues. As a result, stroke survivors often experience improved motor function, reduced muscle weakness, and increased mobility.

Speech and Language Rehabilitation: Acupuncture, when combined with speech therapy, can aid in the recovery of language and speech skills in stroke survivors. By targeting specific acupuncture points associated with communication, it can enhance neural connections in the brain, helping individuals regain their ability to speak and understand language.

Cognitive Enhancement: Stroke-related cognitive deficits can be particularly challenging. Acupuncture may support cognitive recovery by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression, which can hinder cognitive function. By promoting relaxation and reducing emotional distress, it helps improve cognitive performance.

Emotional Well-being: Acupuncture is renowned for its ability to address emotional imbalances. Many stroke survivors experience depression, anxiety, or mood swings as a result of their condition. Acupuncture sessions can provide emotional support by calming the nervous system and promoting a sense of well-being, which is essential for mental health recovery.

Reduced Medication Dependency: Acupuncture's effectiveness in pain relief and managing various symptoms can lead to a reduction in the need for painkillers and other medications. This can be especially beneficial for stroke survivors, as it reduces the risk of medication-related side effects and dependencies.

Stroke recovery is a challenging journey that often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Acupuncture, as a complementary therapy, offers numerous benefits for post-stroke recovery, addressing pain, motor function, speech, cognition, emotional well-being, and medication dependency. However, it is essential to consult with a qualified acupuncture practitioner who has experience working with stroke survivors to develop a tailored treatment plan. While acupuncture alone may not be a miracle cure, it can play a valuable role in enhancing the quality of life and overall well-being of those on the road to post-stroke recovery.