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Study protocol for a revised randomized trial: Remotely delivered Tai Chi and wellness for Gulf War illness.

Authors :
Niles, Barbara L.
Grossman, Stephanie
McQuade, Maria
Grossman, Daniel
Kaiser, Anica Pless
Muccio, Brian
Warner, Ben
Wang, Chenchen
Mori, DeAnna L.
Source :
Contemporary Clinical Trials. Feb2023, Vol. 125, pN.PAG-N.PAG. 1p.
Publication Year :
2023

Abstract

Many of the 700,000 American military personnel deployed to the Persian Gulf region in 1990 and 1991 have since reported health symptoms of unknown etiology. This cluster of symptoms has been labeled Gulf War Illness and include chronic musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, headaches, memory and attention difficulties, gastrointestinal complaints, skin abnormalities, breathing problems, and mood and sleep problems [ 1 , 2 ]. There have been few high-quality intervention trials and no strong evidence to support available treatments [ 3 ]. Tai Chi is an ancient Chinese martial art with benefits that include enhancing physical and mental health and improving quality of life for those with chronic conditions. In this randomized controlled trial, GW Veterans are randomly assigned to either Tai Chi or a Wellness control condition, with both remotely delivered intervention groups meeting twice a week for 12 weeks. The primary aim is to examine if Tai Chi is associated with greater improvements in GWI symptoms in Veterans with GWI compared to a Wellness intervention. Participants will receive assessments at baseline, 12 weeks (post-intervention), and follow-up assessments 3- and 9-months post-intervention. The primary outcome measure is the Brief Pain Inventory that examines pain intensity and pain interference. This trial will produce valuable results that can have a meaningful impact on healthcare practices for GWI. If proven as a helpful treatment for individuals with GWI, it would support the implementation of remotely delivered Tai Chi classes that Veterans can access from their own homes. • There is a need for high-quality intervention trials for Gulf War Illness. • Tai Chi shows promise to address pain and improve functioning in Gulf War Illness. • Using telehealth therapies for Gulf War Veterans can improve access to care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
15517144
Volume :
125
Database :
Academic Search Index
Journal :
Contemporary Clinical Trials
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
161765222
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cct.2022.107045