Chronic pain significantly affects military veterans in the United States, with research indicating that 40% to 70% suffer from this condition. Back pain is the most common complaint, and up to 75% of older veterans report chronic pain, often more severe in younger veterans who have served in recent conflicts. This situation raises concerns about their long-term well-being and the necessity for effective interventions.
The implications of chronic low back pain extend beyond physical health, impacting social and occupational functioning. Many veterans experience compromised quality of life, leading to job loss and financial instability. The reliance on opioid medications for pain relief complicates matters, as veterans face increased risks of addiction and overdose. Additionally, comorbid conditions such as traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) further complicate pain management.
In response to these challenges, researchers at Florida Atlantic University (FAU) have investigated nonpharmacological approaches, specifically qigong, a traditional Chinese practice combining movements, breathing, and meditation. The FAU team developed a qigong program tailored for veterans with chronic low back pain, conducting an eight-week study to assess its effectiveness compared to a control group awaiting treatment.
The study, published in the journal Pain Management Nursing, evaluated multiple outcomes including physical function, sleep disturbance, PTSD symptoms, and levels of depression and anxiety. Results indicated significant improvements in pain-related outcomes for the qigong group, such as reductions in pain intensity and related disability. Participants also reported better sleep quality, emphasizing the holistic benefits of qigong.
Cheryl Krause-Parello, Ph.D., a senior author of the study, highlighted the importance of nonpharmacological interventions like qigong, which address veterans' challenges without the side effects of medications. She advocates for integrative treatment plans that include such practices to enhance veterans' overall well-being.
Additionally, the research revealed connections between biological factors, such as inflammation markers, and psychosocial outcomes. Higher levels of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) correlated with poorer physical function, while another marker, IL-8, was linked to pain-related disability and PTSD symptoms, suggesting an interplay between inflammation and health challenges faced by veterans.
Qigong's accessibility allows it to be practiced individually or in groups, requiring no specialized equipment, making it adaptable for veterans with varying needs. Regular practice can enhance spinal health through gentle exercises that promote flexibility and reduce tension.
The implications of this research extend beyond pain management, providing a foundation for future studies exploring biopsychosocial relationships in patients. As healthcare evolves, understanding nonpharmacological interventions will be essential for developing comprehensive chronic pain management strategies.
In summary, the FAU study on qigong intervention in veterans presents a case for integrating ancient practices into modern pain management discussions. The positive results underscore the need for healthcare providers to adopt holistic approaches that address physical, psychological, and social well-being.