The Roles of Acupuncture and Other Components of Integrative Medicine in Cataclysmic Natural Disasters and Military Conflicts

Abstract

Background: In the recent past, numerous natural disasters and wars have resulted in casualties on site that have been treated successfully by trained personnel using holistic medical techniques, including acupuncture, hypnosis, yoga, biofeedback and other techniques. Adaptations of several of these medical modalities may be taught to first responders. Objective: This article provides a compilation of advice and techniques by practitioners of integrative medicine designed to aid first responders of cataclysmic natural disasters or military conflicts. Coverage includes simple, specific, integrative medicine modalities that have accessible techniques for most community-based responders. Method: This overview describes techniques that have been found to be useful during natural disasters and armed conflicts, such as the Fukushima Daiichi earthquake and the battlefields of Iraq and Afghanistan. The more trained personnel who are able to respond in a crisis, the better the outcome will be for the wounded population. Conclusions: Integrative medicine and traditional medicine techniques can be useful in times of natural cataclysmic disasters and military conflicts.