Chiropractic Care for Veterans: The Power of Listening, Compassion and Lifelong Learning
Veterans seeking a nonpharmaceutical approach to managing non-operative neuromuscular and musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain can get chiropractic care at VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS).
Back pain is exceedingly common and a significant cause of long-term sick leave and work loss, according to the National Council on Aging.
The American College of Physicians recommendations for non-pharmacologic treatments include spinal manipulation along with exercise, low-level light therapy, heat, massage, and acupuncture for treating back pain.
Valerie Johnson, Supervisor of Chiropractic services and Chiropractic Residency Director, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System (VAGLAHS), was the first chiropractor appointed in California by the VA in 2005 and to the VAGLAHS medical staff.
“Chiropractic care is not just limited to spinal manipulations. We provide a broad range of evidence-based approaches to support patients in managing their health,” said Johnson.
Those tools also include therapeutic exercises, manual therapies, traction for disc-related conditions and arthritis, low-level laser therapy, and other mobilization techniques, said Johnson.
The team of chiropractors encourages open communication with patients and takes their time to explain what they are doing and why they are doing it.
“While we’re there, it gives us that time while they’re on the equipment to talk to the patient and in that time, we’re educating them. If you educate a patient, you empower them,” said Johnson.
Kristoffer Hipolito, Navy Veteran and Program Support Assistant, VAGLAHS, has been going to the clinic for a year and a half for inflammation and pain in his shoulder blades.
“I feel good every time I leave from there,” said Hipolito. “The staff in Building 304 are very accommodating and nice. They ask you, ‘How are you doing and what is your pain level?”
If you do have any questions, they are happy to answer any questions you want, said Hipolito.
The importance of learning is not just for patients. Johnson helped establish in 2006 an academic affiliation between VAGLAHS and Southern California University of Health Sciences (SCU) for the Integrated Clinical Practice Chiropractic Residency Program, which helps train the next generation of chiropractors dedicated to delivering high-quality care.
So far 10 residents, including the current resident, received training at VAGLAHS.
To schedule an appointment with Chiropractic services, please reach out to your provider for a consultation. To learn more about the Integrated Clinical Practice Chiropractic Residency Program, please visit www.va.gov/greater-los-angeles-health-care/work-with-us/internships-and-fellowships/integrated-clinical-practice-chiropractic-residency-program/.