Chronic and acute pain affects many Veterans, and at VA, no one faces it alone. Pain management at VA is grounded in a team-based, whole health approach, bringing together doctors, nurses, physical therapists, pharmacists, and other health care providers to deliver coordinated, compassionate care. Each health care provider plays a vital role in helping Veterans find relief and improve their quality of life. Keep reading to learn more about pain management roles across VA and how you can join our team.
Physicians: Guiding diagnosis and treatment
Physicians play a key role in providing pain management care to Veterans and are often the first point of contact for Veterans experiencing pain. VA doctors:
- Diagnose the underlying cause of pain through exams and imaging.
- Develop individualized treatment plans that may include medications, procedures or referrals.
- Collaborate with other specialists to ensure safe, effective and holistic care.
Nurses: Coordinating care and supporting Veterans
Nurses are the backbone of VA’s pain management system, often serving as the most frequent point of contact for Veterans. They:
- Monitor symptoms and progress over time.
- Educate Veterans and families on pain management strategies, medications and lifestyle changes.
- Provide emotional support and encouragement through ongoing care.
- Help coordinate follow-up appointments and communication between providers.
Physical Therapists: Restoring function and mobility
Movement is key to recovery—and physical therapists at VA empower Veterans to regain strength, function and independence. They:
- Design tailored exercise programs to reduce pain and prevent further injury.
- Use hands-on techniques to improve mobility and physical function.
- Teach Veterans strategies for safe movement and long-term wellness.
- Promote non-opioid approaches to pain relief through activity and rehabilitation.
Pharmacists: Optimizing medications for safety and relief
Pharmacists at VA do far more than dispense prescriptions—they are key partners in managing safe and effective pain treatment. They:
- Review and adjust medication plans to avoid interactions or overuse.
- Counsel Veterans on how to take medications safely and effectively.
- Recommend non-opioid alternatives or adjunct therapies when appropriate.
- Partner with doctors and nurses to monitor progress and reduce risks.
Join our team
With 77% of Veterans reporting pain control as one of their top three primary care priorities, pain management is crucial to helping Veterans live fuller, healthier lives. If you’re All About Veterans like we are, consider a rewarding career at VA. Learn more at VA Careers.
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VA should have federal law exemption approval for veterans with history of chronic pain to receive medical marijuana as a viable alternative to opioids. It is so disheartening to see my husband go through excruciating pain on a regular basis but restricted on pain meds. Based on what I’ve read, the medical marijuana has fewer side effects and is less addictive.
Need help managing pain after two back surgeries and a broken femur to my right leg Thanks!!
The VA does need compassionate healthcare people for pain. I can attest to that.
I have had intense chronic pain for 5 years+ and they won’t send me to the VA Hospital that does the noninvasive and drug free procedure to solve the problem (hopefully 80%). Seems funny after being a combat veteran with a 100% disability rating. That’s the good old VA Healthcare in action.
My pain mgt. MD only is concerned about only the one that hurts the most.
He doesn’t want to hear about all the other pain issues.
I am a chronic pain patient and feel as if I’m just a number and that my whole and complete physical condition is rarely taken into consideration. I’ve had 12 different surgeries on different parts of my body, including 4 penile implants after a prostectomy ,2 hip replacements, and a back surgery. I’m in pain almost 24/7.