The AAO Journal, 2023/06, 33(2):23. doi: 10.53702/2375-5717-33.2.20, type of study: ,cr,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Free full text   (https://meridian.allenpress.com/aaoj/article/33/2/20/493544/LBORC-NUFA-Poster-Abstracts-2023-Students)

Keywords:

case report [736]
covid-19 [140]
cranial osteopathy [64]
female [654]
long covid [26]
OMT [3924]
osteopathic manipulative treatment [3945]
post-covid syndrome [2]
women [607]

Abstract:

Introduction/Background: COVID-19 infection may lead to long-term effects with a multitude of symptoms. Common neurological complaints include difficulties concentrating, headache, paresthesia, and fatigue. Treatments to address specific symptoms have yet to be identified. Case: A 61-year-old female presented to the osteopathic clinic complaining of headaches. The patient described her head as feeling heavy and indicated this began after her COVID-19 diagnosis in July of 2022. Additionally, she experienced complications including brain fog, memory loss, “electrical shooting” pain along her upper and lower extremities, fatigue, and acid reflux. She reported that Aleve provided no symptomatic relief. Physical exam revealed generalized allodynia and epigastric tenderness upon palpation. Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) was directed towards the following somatic dysfunctions: cranial strain patterns, cervical and suboccipital muscle hypertonicity, and celiac ganglion restriction. Numerous treatment modalities were utilized including OA decompression, osteopathy in the cranial field (venous sinus drainage technique, frontal lift, parietal lift, balance membranous technique, temporal decompression, CV4), and cervical soft tissue techniques. Results: After two OMT visits, the patient experienced significant improvement in concentration, memory, heavy-headedness, and decreased paresthesia. There was notable progress in her acid reflux and fatigue. Her headaches improved from 7/10 to 3/10 in intensity. She continues to receive OMT for overall maintenance. Discussion: This case report suggests OMT may be beneficial in treating neurological manifestations of post-COVID syndrome, thus improving patient quality of life. Limitations include that this is a single case report and symptoms are difficult to quantify. Further research in the use of cranial osteopathy as a modality in treating individuals experiencing cognitive setbacks following COVID-19 infection is indicated.