Battlefield Acupuncture
Battlefield acupuncture was
developed in 2001 by Richard C. Niemtzow, MD and retired Air Force Colonel, in
hopes of finding a more effective treatment for our servicemen and women.
According to a publication
by Niemtzow:
“Military use of this
technique centers about the pain-free period when a narcotic cannot be used
that would produce lethargy and as a result, would cancel a critical mission.
Because these points are most likely dealing with pain processing at the
central nervous system level, a general quick response to all pain patterns
occurs; simple and complex etiologies. Because the ears are most always
accessible, this method is very convenient and simple to practice without
undressing the patient, especially during combat situations.”
In a newsarticle from the US
Department of Defense, Dr. Stephen Burns (a retired Air Force Colonel and
full-time Air Force acupuncturist) states:
“He [Richard Niemtzow]
localized five points and prioritized them into a protocol that any provider
can use…It will take you five minutes or less and chances are you’re going to
drastically reduce that patient’s pain.”
Many patients “have
complicated medical problems and traditional medicine hasn’t helped them.
They’ve been to the orthopedic surgeon, to traditional pain management clinics,
to neurologists and dermatologists and they’ve taken drugs for pain relief,” he
said.
“The majority of
patients come to our clinic seeking relief from pain. The pain medication
they’re taking has not been satisfactory or they’ve not responded well,”
Niemtzow said.
“For many patients it is a
last resort, but our success rate is very high here, which is very rewarding
for the patient and also for myself and Doctor Burns,” he [Niemtzow] added.
I think it’s very exciting
that now, even the Military is using acupuncture! It is clear that acupuncture
is powerful and while it’s acknowledged that it is not a cure all, it is still
a very effective and cost efficient alternative.
Until next week!
-Daisy
Here are the links I
referenced if you would like to read each article in it’s entirety:
No comments:
Post a Comment