Dr. Richard Niemtzow: A Talented Physician Acupuncturist and Pioneer in Military Acupuncture Medicine

Abstract

Dr. Richard Niemtzow, the developer of battlefield acupuncture, a contemporary acupuncture educator, researcher, and promoter. Picture provided by Dr. Arthur Yin Fan

Dr. Richard Niemtzow was the first full-time physician acupuncturist who created the first acupuncture clinic in the United States military system. This clinic has delivered acupuncture to service members at the Andrews Air Force Base, the Pentagon, the White House, the National Naval Medical Center, and Walter Reed Army Medical Center (note: the latter two were merged, now known as the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center); Richard was the first consultant on Complementary and Alternative Medicine to the Air Force Surgeon General. He was instrumental in establishing acupuncture as a legitimate and effective treatment option for service members and veterans. He was a key contributor to drafting the noted Defense Health Agency document “Acupuncture Practice in Military Medical Treatment Facilities,” which includes the acupuncture providers’ training requirements and acupuncture coverage in the U.S. military medical facilities. One of Richard’s most significant contributions to the field was the development of Battlefield Acupuncture, a technique designed to provide rapid pain relief in combat situations. He was the Editor-in-Chief of Medical Acupuncture for over 25 years, transforming the journal into a leading publication in the field, showcasing cutting-edge research, and fostering dialogue among practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. Richard spent 13 years as a council member for the National Institute of Health’s National Advisory Council for Complementary and Alternative Health, and he served as the President of the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture from 2009 to 2011. Richard was a mentor, educator, friend, and a source of inspiration to countless individuals.