JAMA Psychiatry Author Interviews Acupuncture for Combat-Related Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
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Feb 21, 2024 Guest Michael Hollifield discusses a randomized clinical trial on using acupuncture for combat-related PTSD. They explore the efficacy of verum acupuncture, the importance of rigorous research, and the superior effectiveness of VIRM acupuncture over CHAM acupuncture. Results challenge traditional trauma therapy theories and highlight the need for further research on acupuncture as a treatment for combat-related PTSD.
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Traditional Chinese Medicine and PTSD
- Traditional Chinese medicine views the mind and body as interconnected and has treated PTSD-like conditions for centuries.
- Acupuncture's potential lies in its effects on multiple body systems central to PTSD physiology.
Hollifield's Journey to Medicine
- Dr. Hollifield was advised by Elmer Green, the "father of biofeedback," to attend medical school.
- Green believed Hollifield's holistic ideas wouldn't be respected otherwise.
Study Design and Rationale
- The study used verum acupuncture and a sham control to rigorously assess acupuncture's effects on PTSD.
- Biological outcomes like fear-potentiated startle were measured alongside clinical outcomes to reduce bias and explore potential biomarkers.