Long Haul COVID-19 and Subluxation: A case report

A 59-year-old photographer with a presumptive diagnosis of COVID-19 in December of 2019 experienced multiple long-haul symptoms including ‘brain fog’ (deficits in memory and attention), headache, and limited ability to read. These symptoms were exacerbated by COVID-19 vaccinations and booster. At presentation in January of 2022, her reverse digit span was 5, and testing was accompanied by frustration to the point of tears. Attempts at reading produced a headache, forcing her to rely on audiobooks. Recipes she had used for many years were now difficult to follow. She reported an increased intolerance to cold since her illness. After 3 chiropractic visits over a period of 18 days, reverse digit span was 6 and the testing provoked no tears or any apparent frustration. Reading tolerance was improved, and she had experienced one 2-day period during which she had been able to read an entire book without ill effects. Her ability to follow recipes had improved. The chiropractic visits included adjustment of vertebral subluxation at multiple levels, adjustment of cranial faults, reflex therapies, and breathing exercises. We discuss possible mechanisms including disturbed dural mechanics, ischemic penumbra, and hypothyroidism.