Needles vs. stress: can acupuncture help military members?

NCT ID NCT06044714

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether adding acupuncture to a short mindfulness program could lower stress in 86 active-duty military members and veterans. Participants either received four weekly acupuncture sessions plus mindfulness therapy, or mindfulness therapy alone. Researchers measured changes in perceived stress and sleep quality to see if the combination worked better.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

acupuncture

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a simple, drug-free way to lower stress for military members and veterans.

What could go wrong

This is a small, completed trial with no phase designation, so results may not apply broadly. Acupuncture effects can vary, and the study combined it with another therapy, making it hard to isolate benefits.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Naval Medical Center, San Diego

    San Diego, California, 92134, United States