Professor of occupational and environmental medicine David McBride, of the University of Otago department of preventive and social medicine, is leading the study and is calling for participants from among New Zealand’s veteran community.
Prof McBride is himself a veteran, having seen active service in East Timor and Afghanistan as a New Zealand Defence Medical Officer and was commanding officer of the Dunedin-based 4 O South infantry regiment from 2000-2003.
"My service experience and being in that role gave me insight into the ongoing impact of physical injuries, as well as stress, among veterans," Prof McBride said.
Three years ago, under the auspices of the veterans’ health advisory panel, Prof McBride asked 1900 veterans to fill out a questionnaire, which showed that many experience symptoms of post traumatic stress injury (PTSI), and also had more pain and more difficulty with daily living and activities than the general population.
"Adding to the impact of this is the issue of loneliness, which can be a factor for veterans as well," Prof McBride.
"As we know, veterans tend to be stoic, and can see seeking help as a sign of weakness.
"But if left untreated, the multiple symptoms of PTSI can exacerbate illness and disability."
Inspired by reports of positive effect from battlefield acupuncture by defence forces overseas, including the United States, Prof McBride has created a new study, which will look into whether acupuncture and Rongoa Maori traditional health techniques can be helpful for veterans.
He is searching for 120 veterans — people of all ages who have served in the military — to participate in the study.
Veterans who experience muscle and joint pains or stiffness; feel worried, anxious or stressed; sleep poorly or have distressing dreams; or avoid people or doing things, will be ideal candidates for the study.
The study participants will be randomly allocated to treatment with battlefield acupuncture, along with a talking therapy, or Rongoa Maori traditional healing, or will form a "control" group and continue with their usual care.
Treatment will take 12 weeks or less, with each session lasting about an hour.
"The outcome of the study will be measured by whether the veterans feel better after the 12 weeks — whether that be their pain, symptoms of distress, disability, or general health," Prof McBride said.
For more information on the study and to sign up, email david.mcbride@otago.ac.nz, or read more in Prof McBride’s blog at https://blogs.otago.ac.nz/veteranshealth/acupuncture/
