Acupuncture in the Military - Ex-Soldier's Account of Acupuncture on the Battlefield
Updated: Aug 11

Military acupuncture is a centuries-old healing practice that utilizes thin needles to promote health and wellness in individuals. However, the use of acupuncture has taken on a whole new meaning in battlefield situations where military acupuncturists are deployed to provide immediate relief to soldiers in distress. This form of acupuncture is known as Battlefield Acupuncture.
Auriculotherapy (Ear Acupuncture) The use of Battlefield Acupuncture has been found to be highly effective in providing relief to soldiers suffering from extreme pain and anxiety. The immediate relief provided allows the soldiers to remain focused on their mission while receiving the necessary treatment. Additionally, the use of acupuncture has also been found to reduce the need for medication, which can have negative side effects on the soldiers that need to stay alert, thus aiding in the overall recovery process.
Auriculotherapy (Ear Acupuncture) Versus Acupuncture, which one is better for me? In the context of ex-soldiers, the benefits of acupuncture extend far beyond the immediate relief of pain and anxiety on the battlefield. Many ex-soldiers suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other mental health issues that plague them long after they have left the military. Acupuncture has been found to be an effective form of treatment for PTSD and other mental health issues. The practice has been shown to reduce the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and addiction while also improving overall mental health.
Acupuncture for Stress, Anxiety, and Depression

Journal articles have been written on the effectiveness of acupuncture in military and veteran affairs. One such study conducted by the National Acupuncture Detoxification Association found that acupuncture treatment significantly reduced anxiety levels among veterans with PTSD. The study, which involved over 120 veterans, found that acupuncture was able to reduce anxiety levels by as much as 50%.
Cortisol the Stress Hormone and Acupuncture Another study by the Department of Veterans Affairs found that acupuncture was effective in reducing chronic pain in veterans. This study, which involved over 100 veterans suffering from chronic pain, found that acupuncture was able to significantly reduce pain levels and improve overall quality of life.
Optimal Performance & Recovery with Acupuncture & Cupping at Acute Acupuncture Wellington

In conclusion, Military acupuncture, particularly Battlefield Acupuncture, has been proven to be an effective form of treatment in providing immediate relief to soldiers on the battlefield as well as reducing the symptoms of PTSD and other mental health issues in ex-soldiers. This form of treatment has been backed by numerous journal articles, acupuncture is quickly becoming a preferred mode of therapy in the military and veteran affairs community. Above is 3 photos from when I was in the military from 23 October 1998 to 23 October 2003. If you know of veterans who are suffering from their time in active service tell them about Acute Acupuncture, With gratitude Nate. Thank you for taking the time to read this Blog Post, don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this post. If you have any more questions or concerns check out our Acute-Acupuncture Wellington Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), as we find these help to answer most people's questions.