Acupuncture Superior To Sham Needling For Reducing PTSD Symptoms Among Combat Veterans

Acupuncture delivered over 12 to 15 weeks is more effective than sham needling at reducing symptoms for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or fear-potentiated startle responses. The comparison was tested in a randomized clinical trial with 93 participants. Those who received the verum acupuncture intervention had a larger reduction in their PTSD symptoms than those who received the comparison sham intervention, which was associated with a moderate reduction in PTSD symptoms. Symptom reduction was significantly associated with extinction of fear.

Verum acupuncture refers to traditional acupuncture, which is the technique of inserting thin needles in the skin . . .