Student athletes at George Washington University have access to acupuncture courtesy of a partnership with the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine. The program, which began in April, involves licensed VUIM clinicians and graduate students, with the former providing acupuncture to GWU student athletes, and the latter observing and assisting under direct supervision as part of their clinical training.
The program is described as a wellness initiative designed to “manage pain more naturally, recover faster from injuries, improve flexibility and circulation, and support mental clarity and stress relief.” All acupuncture sessions are conducted on the GWU campus and are coordinated with the university’s NCAA Division 1 athletic and health teams.
As of press time, members of GWU’s rowing, lacrosse and tennis teams had received acupuncture treatments, with student-athletes from other GWU teams expected to join them.
“We’re proud to support [GWU] athletes with acupuncture — a safe, non-invasive approach that helps the body heal itself,” stated VUIM in a PR release on the partnership with GWU. “It reduces pain, improves recovery, and even helps with stress and focus. For student-athletes juggling intense training and academics, it’s a powerful tool for both physical and mental wellbeing.”
