Battlefield acupuncture: a Needle-Based alternative to NSAIDs for back pain?

NCT ID NCT04236908

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: David Moss Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether ear acupuncture (called Battlefield Acupuncture) works better than standard painkillers (NSAIDs) for acute low back pain in active-duty military members. 276 participants received either acupuncture, NSAIDs, or both. The goal was to see which approach reduced pain and missed work days more effectively.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Battlefield Acupuncture (ear acupuncture with semi-permanent needles) and naproxen (NSAID)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a drug-free option for quick pain relief in military settings.
What could go wrong: This is a small, completed study in a specific military population, so results may not apply to everyone. Acupuncture effects can vary, and the placebo effect is strong in pain studies.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Low Back Pain

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

ACUPUNCTURE LOW BACK PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Mike O'Callaghan Military Medical Center

Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, 89191, United States

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