Acupuncture and Massage Are Ideal Not Only for Evacuees but Also for Relief Workers During a Disaster - Based on Health Support Activities During the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024

Summary: During the Noto Peninsula Earthquake in 2024, a health support program took place for approximately four months, providing acupuncture and massage therapies to both relief workers and evacuees. The health support for relief workers was provided at four locations, while the support for evacuees was provided at one location. In the acute phase, the program targeted medical personnel, Self-Defense Forces, and firefighters, focusing on treating physical problems such as back pain and ankle sprain. Approximately one month later, the extension was granted to city hall officials in affected cities who were also earthquake victims, having evacuated their homes. They were suffering from anxiety, insomnia, cold intolerance, and eye strain. After around three months had passed, the number of relief workers in those offices was increased with officials from outside, and they started addressing chronic fatigue issues, including shoulder stiffness, lower back pain, and knee joint pain. Given that the needs of those relief workers evolved in each phase, it is necessary to provide flexible support. Acupuncture and massage therapies can have positive effects broadly, covering “from acute to chronic stages,” “in both physical and mental health,” and “from pediatric to elderly ages.” When a disaster occurs, it is often difficult to find medical records of affected individuals on time. In addition to that, little attention is paid to maintaining the health of those who make efforts to relieve difficulties in affected areas. Under such conditions, acupuncture and massage can contribute to easing relief workers’ health problems and enable comprehensive health support in a disaster. So, it can be encouraged worldwide to consider incorporating these methods into disaster response efforts.