Researchers reveal that qigong, a traditional Chinese practice, significantly decreases chronic low back pain in U..S military veterans. This holistic approach could transform pain management strategies for veterans.
A recent pilot study conducted by researchers led by Florida Atlantic University has uncovered a promising nonpharmacological treatment for chronic low back pain among U.S. military veterans: qigong. The traditional Chinese practice, known for combining gentle movements, controlled breathing and meditation, has shown significant improvements in pain-related outcomes and overall well-being.
Chronic pain, particularly in the lower back, is a prevalent issue among veterans. Between 40% to 70% of military veterans in the United States suffer from chronic pain, often leading to severe physical, social and economic consequences.
Traditional pain management methods, which frequently involve opioid prescriptions, pose significant risks of addiction and overdose, making nonpharmacological alternatives vital.
The innovative study, published in the journal Pain Management Nursing, evaluated the effectiveness of an eight-week qigong program specifically tailored for veterans with chronic low back pain.
The researchers measured various biological, psychological and social outcomes, including physical function, sleep disturbance, PTSD, depression, anxiety, positive affect, and social roles and activities.
Cheryl Krause-Parello, the study’s senior author and FAU associate vice president for research, highlighted the transformative potential of this approach.
“This holistic approach addresses the complex challenges faced by veterans with chronic low back pain without relying on medications,” she said in a news release. “Armed with this knowledge, health care providers, such as nurses and physical therapists, should actively consider incorporating nonpharmacological interventions like qigong into treatment plans to enhance the overall well-being of veterans dealing with chronic low back pain.”
Krause-Parello is also a founding director of Canines Providing Assistance to Wounded Warriors (C-PAWW), and an associate executive director and faculty fellow at FAU Institute for Human Health and Disease Intervention (I-Health).
The study found substantial decreases in pain intensity, low back pain-related disability and pain interference in the qigong group compared to the control group. The participants practicing qigong also reported significant improvements in sleep quality.
These findings suggest that qigong can be a powerful tool in managing chronic pain and improving life quality among veterans.
Beyond pain relief, the study also revealed critical links between biological and psychosocial factors. Elevated levels of inflammatory markers, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) and IL-8, were strongly associated with increased physical dysfunction and heightened symptoms of PTSD. These correlations underscore the interplay between physical and mental health, particularly in individuals with chronic conditions.
Qigong, which is easy to learn and practice, offers several therapeutic benefits. Krause-Parello explained.
“Stretching, loosening, strengthening and balancing techniques of qigong may release back tension, ease pain and improve flexibility and alignment,” she added. “Qigong practice can strengthen the musculoskeletal system and improve joint flexibility, motor function and movement coordination. It can activate postural improvements and decrease pain. Importantly, it can improve physical conditions and psychosocial function such as depression and social isolation in veterans with chronic back pain.”
This pilot study’s promising results pave the way for more extensive clinical trials to further explore the relationships among biopsychosocial factors and solidify qigong as a viable, holistic treatment for chronic pain in veterans.