Comprehensive care for chronic pain

Columbia VA’s Outpatient Interdisciplinary Pain Program (OIPP) offers a holistic approach to managing chronic pain, addressing not only the physical aspects but also the emotional and psychological factors. This innovative program offers Veterans the tools and knowledge they need to manage their pain and improve their quality of life.

Chronic pain can have a significant impact on a Veteran’s ability to function in daily life, affecting everything from work and social activities to sleep and emotional health. The OIPP provides Veterans with a comprehensive treatment plan that goes beyond pain medication to include a combination of education, therapy and support.

“We know that pain is a multifaceted issue so we approach it from a variety of angles,” said Deborah Reyes, program director. “Each component of the program is designed to help Veterans develop lifelong skills to manage their pain, improve their functioning and enhance their overall well-being.”

Veterans in the program will participate in weekly group sessions and individual appointments with various specialists.

• Pain management education: Veterans learn about the physiological processes behind pain and how to take an active role in managing it.

• Physical therapy: Tailored exercise routines are developed to increase strength, mobility and flexibility, helping to reduce pain and improve movement.

• Psychological support: Cognitive-behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques are taught to help Veterans cope with the emotional and psychological challenges that often accompany chronic pain.

• Whole health approach: The program treats the entire body with education on nutrition, sleep, medication use and body science. We utilize a variety of treatments that compliment traditional approaches to address pain, such as adaptive yoga, tai chi, acupressure and battlefield acupuncture.

Pictured above, physical therapist Amanda Brooks walks with Veteran Regina McFarlan during the exercise portion of the program.

An opportunity for mutual learning in a supportive environment

Group sessions, which take place weekly, are a key part of the program. “Group settings offer peer support, where Veterans can share their experiences and offer advice to one another. It’s an opportunity for mutual learning in a safe, supportive environment,” Reyes said.

The program runs in six-week cycles, alternating between in-person and virtual groups with new groups starting about every three months. Veterans also have one-on-one appointments with a pain social worker throughout the program to help personalize their treatment goals.

Group sizes are kept to a small number of 6-10 Veterans, ensuring each participant receives personalized attention and care. Veterans in the program will not only engage in education and therapy but will also practice new strategies, incorporating them into their daily routines. The program encourages consistency and dedication, making it important for participants to commit to the full six weeks.

“I didn’t think I had time for a six-week program, but I’m so glad I stuck with it,” said Army Veteran Juan Lanzot. “The tools I’ve learned have made a real difference in how I manage my pain day-to-day.”

“It taught me strategies I still use every day.”

Veterans who complete the virtual and in-person programs report a significant improvement in both their physical and emotional well-being. Army Veteran Diane Balog shared her experience: “I had been living with chronic pain for years and nothing seemed to help. This was my last hope, and I’m so glad I took the chance. I didn’t think I could find a way to deal with my pain, but this program showed me a whole new perspective. It taught me strategies that I still use every day. The psychological support in the program was life changing. It didn’t just focus on the pain. It also helped me handle the emotional side of living with chronic pain. It was the first time in years that I felt like I was in control of my life again.”

Lanzot emphasized how the program helped him in ways he didn’t anticipate. “At first, I didn’t think I could commit to such a long program. But now that I’ve completed it, I see how worth it it was. The program gave me tools that I’ll carry with me for the rest of my life.”

The program provides Veterans with a new perspective on pain management, one that doesn’t rely solely on medications but instead offers strategies for long-term coping and healing.

Veterans leave the program with improved mobility, a better understanding of their pain and a greater sense of confidence in managing it. Whether Veterans are struggling with everyday tasks, social interactions, or simply coping with the stress of living with pain, the program provides the support needed to move forward.