Therapeutic approach for managing long COVID symptoms

Researchers estimate about 203 COVID symptoms can persist long after the initial viral attack, affecting the quality of life for an estimated 17 million Americans. Leading expert Robert Groysman, MD, founder of the COVID Institute, is making innovative strides in the fight against these complex symptoms. His first-of-its kind dual therapeutic approach may soon help more patients reclaim their lives.

Groysman’s research and clinical practice have significantly contributed to the understanding of long COVID. His new groundbreaking therapy uses Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) — not commonly practiced outside of Asia — in conjunction with Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB). “I strongly believe the most benefits will be experienced with this combination,” he says, anticipating most patients will experience symptom relief within two weeks.

Groysman is particularly excited by this dual therapy’s potential to help manage dysautonomia, a condition common in long COVID patients. Dysautonomia affects the autonomic nervous system, which controls the body’s automatic functions including heart rate, digestion and kidney function. “Dysautonomia is normally very hard to treat. This gives us another way to address it.”

Published human clinical trial associates EAT with long COVID symptom relief
Developed in Japan, Epipharyngeal Abrasive Therapy (EAT) has been available since the 1960s, almost exclusively in Asia. It is a fairly quick procedure, lasting about 10 minutes, that involves controlled abrasion in the epipharynx region of the throat. This induces a mild inflammatory reaction, believed to activate the body's immune capabilities, which is crucial for patients with deregulated immune systems.

A recent human clinical trial1 involving long COVID patients found that EAT provided relief for common treatment-resistant symptoms such as pressure headaches, hoarseness and trouble swallowing. Although EAT is less commonly practiced in the United States, Groysman is actively involved in clinical studies and advocacy to increase access to this treatment.

“I believe EAT will be the missing piece for managing symptoms,” says Groysman, who has modernized and refined the concept to target specific post-viral syndromes. “This novel method is designed to potentially accelerate recovery from viral infections and autoimmune conditions prevalent in long COVID sufferers.”

Learn more about Groysman’s pioneering work
As the medical community continues to navigate the challenges posed by long COVID, Groysman’s dual therapeutic approach with EAT and SGB offers new hope for innovative, effective management strategies.

For additional information about Groysman’s work, or to schedule an appointment at his comprehensive long COVID treatment center and clinic which is conveniently located less than 12 minutes from Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, visit COVIDInstitute.org.