In an effort to decrease drug dependency, VA is actively exploring alternative forms of therapy to help Veterans ease pain and trauma. Most VA hospitals today offer some form of alternative treatment, such as yoga, mindfulness and art therapy. Recently, VA awarded a grant to a medical anthropologist at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, to expand his Tai Chi therapy program designed for patients in wheelchairs. The program focuses on breathing and mindfulness techniques paired with light physical motions. Guo teaches classes in Chattanooga and Murfreesboro, TN, and is training VA instructors in Florida, Texas, Utah and Arizona. In addition to improved physical health, Guo believes Tai Chi may prove beneficial for reducing the symptoms of mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). “When you have a good amount of body harmony, people tend to engage in proactive life, so that helps with all kinds of symptoms” he says.
Want to help Veterans reduce their prescription use and find relief through alternative therapies? Consider a career in recreational therapy with VA. As part of our team, you’ll receive expert training, career growth opportunities and generous benefits that support a healthy work/life balance. Plus, you’ll experience the joy of helping Veterans lead better lives. To get started, explore our open positions and apply today.
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Come sit with my #VietnamVeteran father and tell me art or breathing will solve pain from spinal stenosis, strokes, PTSD, open heart surgery. Some patients cant sit in a wheelchair long enough for Chi. The government has no right dictacting a drs opiniin of NEEDS. The crisis is SUFFERING from decent veterans who are commiting suicide from pain.
Hi Jan,
I understand, and totally agree with your statement because nothing works for everyone and we’re all dealing with unique issues. Hopefully this program can help some though, broaden its’ scope, and grow. I had a training accident, and struggled to find back pain relief without opioids or surgery for years. We invented a mobile decompression device that changed everything, and have a meeting with the VA later this month. So I may be able to help with your Dad’s back pain/ stenosis is my point. Would love to help if I can. I’ve been there…
Mobile vet money is hard to find here asking people for money is like talking to a brick wall.
I Think people should not put words in other people mouth that are involved in medication far as money or religion. it creates a conspire to cut foliage and surrounding fruit. T riming spruce trees is a trick for nuts by the birds such as Robbins and bluejays. also migrant birds.
Think you for all your help for our veteran God bless you all