This study is testing if Battlefield Acupuncture (BFA) can help veterans who have both chronic pain and a history of substance use disorder. BFA involves placing five small needles in specific points on each ear. You would receive this treatment weekly for 8 weeks. Researchers will measure your pain levels using a questionnaire to see if BFA is effective. They will also look at how BFA might affect your stress, mood, sleep, depression, anxiety, and substance use. To join, you must be 18 or older, have chronic pain and a history of substance use disorder, and be available for 16 weeks. Pregnant female veterans or those with bleeding disorders on certain blood thinners cannot participate. The study aims to enroll 125 participants.

Study design

This is a prospective, randomized controlled trial (RCT) that plans to enroll 125 veterans. An RCT means participants are randomly assigned to different groups to compare treatments.

What's involved

You would participate in the study for 16 weeks, receiving Battlefield Acupuncture weekly for 8 weeks. You would also complete behavioral research tools to measure depression, anxiety, and substance use at three different times.

Compensation

Not stated in the trial record.

Follow-up

Your pain levels will be evaluated for 8 weeks after your treatment ends.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.