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The innovative study highlights the effectiveness of Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice, in decreasing chronic back pain among veterans. This approach not only reduces pain intensity but also enhances sleep quality and mental health indicators like PTSD and depression.
This is significant because chronic pain disproportionately affects veterans in relation to their civilian counterparts, often leading to over-reliance on opioid prescriptions. Offering a viable nonpharmacological treatment like Qigong provides a holistic way to manage pain while reducing the risk of addiction and improving overall well-being.
The study conducted by Florida Atlantic University explored the effects of an eight-week Qigong intervention on veterans dealing with chronic low back pain. Results showed significant reductions in pain intensity and disability, along with notable improvements in sleep and mental health measures such as anxiety and depression. This suggests Qigong's potential as an effective non-drug treatment, addressing both physical and psychosocial dimensions of chronic pain.
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Chronic pain is a significant and widespread issue among military veterans in the United States, with a prevalence rate between 40 to 70%. This demographic reports more frequent and severe pain compared to civilians, with back pain being notably common.
Older veterans are particularly affected, with about 75% reporting chronic pain. This not only impacts their physical health but also their social and occupational functioning. Furthermore, the reliance on opioid prescriptions poses additional risks. Hence, addressing chronic pain through alternative therapies is crucial.
Qigong, an ancient Chinese practice, combines gentle movements, controlled breathing, and meditation to nurture the body's energy, or 'qi.' It is similar in some ways to Tai Chi but focuses more on internal energy work, making it particularly suited for chronic pain management.
"Qigong is easy to learn, does not require specific sites or equipment, and can be practiced individually or collectively in a variety of styles." - Juyoung Park, Ph.D., Florida Atlantic University
Because of its accessibility and adaptability, Qigong is an appealing nonpharmacological option, especially for individuals who may face physical limitations or those seeking a gentle form of exercise that contributes both to physical and mental health.
The study conducted by researchers from Florida Atlantic University evaluated the effects of a novel Qigong program on veterans with chronic low back pain. The eight-week longitudinal study revealed significant reductions in pain intensity, disability, and pain interference for the Qigong group compared to a control group.
Participants practicing Qigong also experienced improved sleep and reduced levels of anxiety, depression, and PTSD symptoms. These findings suggest that Qigong not only addresses physical pain but also improves psychosocial factors, making it a comprehensive treatment alternative.
"All pain-related outcomes decreased significantly in the Qigong group compared to the control group." - David Newman, Ph.D., Florida Atlantic University
The research indicates that Qigong's holistic approach can significantly aid veterans dealing with chronic back pain. By reducing reliance on medications, it alleviates risks associated with opioid use. Health care providers are encouraged to consider such nonpharmacological interventions, which not only address physical symptoms but also improve mental health and social functioning.
Further research is warranted to explore the relationship between biological markers, such as inflammation, and psychosocial outcomes observed in the study. Understanding these links may enhance the implementation of Qigong in clinical settings, thereby promoting its adoption as part of a comprehensive pain management strategy for veterans.
Krause-Parello, C. A., et al. (2024). Examining Preliminary Efficacy of a Qigong Intervention in Veterans with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study. Pain Management Nursing, 25(1), 1-10. doi:10.1016/j.pmn.2024.10.013
Galoustian, G. (2025). Qigong Significantly Decreases Chronic Low Back Pain in U.S. Veterans. Florida Atlantic University News Desk. Accessed 2025-01-20. https://www.fau.edu/newsdesk/articles/qigong-chronic-low-back-pain