Using Battlefield Acupuncture to Help Veterans with Chronic Pain
A Randomized Clinical Trial Utilizing Battlefield Acupuncture to Treat Chronic Pain in Veterans With a History of Substance Use Disorder.
This study is testing if Battlefield Acupuncture can help veterans with chronic pain and a history of substance use feel better and improve their mood, stress, and sleep over eight weeks.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 125 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Edith Nourse Rogers Memorial Veterans Hospital Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Bedford, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06128772 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research evaluates the effectiveness of Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) in treating chronic pain among veterans with a history of substance use disorder over an 8-week period. The study aims to assess not only pain relief but also improvements in stress, mood, and sleep patterns. Participants will complete behavioral assessments to measure changes in depression, anxiety, and substance use at three different points during the study. The hypothesis is that BFA will reduce pain and substance use while enhancing the overall quality of life for these veterans.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans aged 18 and older who have chronic pain and a history of substance use disorder.
Not a fit: Patients who are pregnant, have bleeding disorders, or fear needles may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide veterans with a non-pharmacological method to manage chronic pain and reduce substance use.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of acupuncture for pain management is established, the specific application of Battlefield Acupuncture in this context is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Eligibility criteria include: * they are 18 years or older * they have a history of substance use disorder, * history of chronic pain * availability to participate in the study for 16 weeks. Exclusion Criteria: * female veterans who are pregnant. * history of bleeding disorders or currently on older blood thinning medications that cause excessive bleeding. * currently being treated for an active infection of the outer ear (relative contraindication). -- currently have a PICC line in their body or are receiving IV antibiotics. * fear of needles/tacks, and/or * undiagnosed pain complaint
Where this trial is running
Bedford, Massachusetts
- Bedford VA Healthcare System — Bedford, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Cathy M St Pierre, PhD
- Email: Cathy.StPierre@va.gov
- Phone: 781-687-2983
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.