Small Observational Study of Battlefield Acupuncture for Homeless-Experienced Veterans.

ABSTRACT

Background: Homeless-experienced veterans (HEVs) are an important but challenging group to care for in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health care system, and there are opportunities to examine the potential of integrative and complementary medicine approaches. Methods: This observational study enrolled 33 HEVs in a one-group observational, prospective study of Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) with a monthly follow-up for 3 months after initiating BFA. Results: Linear growth curve analyses revealed a significant improvement in overall pain scores and scores on the effects of pain on activity level, mood, and stress. Conclusions: These preliminary findings suggest the potential of BFA to improve pain among HEVs as an area for further research.