Veterans need for study on alternative medicine for pain and distress
Kia ora The University of Otago have found from their health research surveys that veterans have more problems than the general population in mobility, self-care, carrying out usual activities, and pain or discomfort. They also have higher than usual levels of distress. Part of the issue may be avoidance, as they tend to be stoic, ‘soldiering on’ instead of seeking support for their physical or mental health.
Researchers believe alternative and complementary medicines might be an appropriate way to engage Veterans and increase resiliency. These are:
- ‘Battlefield acupuncture,’ an auriculotherapy developed by the US military;
- Focused Action and Commitment Therapy (FACT) developed by Professor Bruce Arrol; and
- Rongoā Māori - traditional Māori healing.
With the support of Lottery Health, researchers at the University of Otago have designed a randomized controlled trial comparing the treatment arm, battlefield acupuncture and FACT (or Rongoā Māori alone, if culturally appropriate) with the control arm (‘usual care’ how they usually manage their own health).
Both arms will carry out a baseline ‘online’ survey, with follow up at 12, 24 and 36 weeks. Acupuncture sessions will take place weekly over 12 weeks, with at least 2 FACT sessions. The results will be freely available online.
Former NZDF personnel who experience mobility issues, difficulties in self-care or usual activities, pain, discomfort, and/or psychological distress are invited to join this study.
Find out more about this University of Otago study comparing alternative medicine to usual care for NZ veterans., including how to participate.