Pain Management & Wellbeing Resources for Veterans

Resources from VA and Beyond

From Our Blog

There’s a lot to juggle when preparing to have surgery, from filling prescriptions to dietary prep – not to mention nerves. It can be easy to overlook your own self-care, but there’s good reason to incorporate massage into your pre-surgical prep. Learn why massage is essential before surgery »

Mental Health Benefits

Tackling pain through the mind: Cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic pain (CBT-CP) provides a strategic, problem-solving approach that empowers individuals to change their experience of pain, physically and emotionally. Find out about CBT and VA coverage of it »

Massage Science

What’s the VA’s take on massage? VHA has cited “high-confidence evidence” that massage therapy is highly effective for management of a variety of pain conditions. Explore the VA’s research, policies, and treatment guidance around massage therapy at VA.gov »

From Our Blog

Struggling to get a good night’s sleep? There’s a growing body of evidence showing how the ancient practice of yoga – which combines movement, meditation, and breathing exercises – can help those suffering from sleep disorders. Find out how to use yoga to get better sleep »

Whole Health Benefits

Seeking non-opioid pain solutions that are covered by VA benefits? In addition to massage, VA offers benefits and resources for techniques like acupuncture, meditation, chiropractic, and Tai Chi. Learn about the VA’s Complementary and Integrative Health coverage for pain and well-being »

URGENT: Help protect pay rates for VHA massage therapists!

Massage therapists provide valuable therapy for pain, but the VA has reduced provider reimbursement for this treatment. If medical massage has helped you, add your voice to a petition asking Congress to support improved provider payment for medical massage by texting “VET” to 50409.

Learn More & Add Your Voice

News and Updates

House Veterans Affairs Committee member Rep. Chris Pappas (D-NH) has called on VA Secretary McDonough to reverse the VA’s decision to lower reimbursement rates for massage therapy, saying “This decision has far-reaching implications, adversely affecting veterans’ well-being, providers, small business owners, and the overall effectiveness of our healthcare system.” Find out more »

US senators request update on non-opioid pain management options for Veterans: Senator Kevin Cramer of North Dakota is joined by 21 other senators in requesting an update from VA Secretary McDonough on the progress VA has made on developing non-opioid pain management programs to prevent addiction and abuse within the Veteran community. Learn more & read the letter »

Have a question for VA Secretary McDonough? Submit it for consideration for a virtual Veteran Town Hall with Secy. McDonough on May 15th! Submit your question here.

Clinical study results continue to show the efficacy of massage therapy for a range of conditions impacting veterans including chronic pain, anxiety, and PTSD. Learn more »

Hats off to this Texas clinic specializing in Veteran care with the same focus that we have at Zeel: Using massage to improve quality of life while reducing reliance on opioids and surgery. Learn about Tranquility for Troops »

The 2024 PACT Act expansion extends benefits eligibility for toxic exposure care to Veterans of the Vietnam War, Gulf War, and post-9/11 deployments. What does that mean for you? Find out at va.gov »

► Video: Mindfulness for Chronic Pain

Many studies have shown that mindfulness offers numerous benefits for mental and physical health. For chronic pain sufferers, a sustained mindfulness practice can be a key component of pain management by improving functions like sleep and breathing; increasing acceptance of the pain condition; and reducing anxiety, depression, and physical tension.

This guided meditation is specifically designed for managing chronic pain by helping you calm your mind and take emotional control of the experience of pain.

Explore more guided meditations »

Featured Resource: Rx3

Rx3 is a series of online stretching and exercise programs designed to help Service Members and Veterans recover from MSK injuries, improve fitness, and enhance overall health. Choose one of 11 programs tailored to concerns like back pain, core strengthening, hip injuries, balance improvement, and more. There’s even an app to help you track your progress! Courtesy of Human Performance Resources by CHAMP

Keep Recovering with Rx3