Presentation summary

Introduction :
Long COVID is a multisystemic condition affecting various organs, mainly characterized by autonomic,
vascular, and neurological symptoms. The World Health Organization estimates that 10–20% of those infected with SARS-CoV-2 develop long COVID. The Slovenian epidemiological study SI-PANDA (26th edition) found that over 60% of participants had persistent symptoms three months after infection, with fatigue and lack of energy being the most common, significantly reducing quality of life and work capacity.

Method [Not applicable]

Results :
We present the case of an 82-year-old female with a medical history of type 2 diabetes mellitus, arterial hypertension, and peripheral arterial occlusive disease. The patient had received four doses of the COVID-19 vaccine. Her first SARS-CoV-2 infection in 2021 caused fever, cough, and post-viral polyarthritis, treated with NSAIDs and methylprednisolone for a total of 14 days. In 2024, the patient experienced a second, milder COVID-19 infection with no fever, just a few days of dry cough.
However, 2-3 weeks after the infection, she developed severe fatigue, reduced physical activity, persistent leg edema, and poor appetite.
Upon examination, the tongue was red, without coating, and showed multiple fissures.The pulse was thin and weak. Upon palpation, tenderness was noted particularly at SP6. The Traditional Chinese Medicine diagnosis included Yin deficiency, Spleen and Kidney Qi deficiency, and Dampness accumulation in the Lower Jiao.
The patient received laser acupuncture twice per week; each acupuncture point was stimulated for 15 seconds using a dose of 2 J/cm². The acupuncture points used included LI4, LI11, SJ6, LR3, SP6, SP9, SP21, KI1, KI3, BL62, REN4, and DU4. The aim of the therapy was to tonify Yin, strengthen Kidney and Spleen Qi, and resolve Dampness accumulation.
After six sessions significant improvements were observed. The leg edema resolved completely, and
while the patient continued