Active Management of Pain Program Helps Veterans Take Control of Chronic Pain

By integrating behavioral health strategies with physical therapy techniques, AMP equips Veterans with the skills needed to manage their pain effectively and regain control over their daily activities.

Chronic pain can affect every aspect of a person’s life—physical, emotional, and mental. Recognizing this, the AMP program blends evidence-based behavioral pain management techniques with physical therapy to provide a comprehensive approach to pain relief. Unlike traditional treatment models, which often separate these disciplines, AMP brings them together in an interdisciplinary setting.

“AMP is designed to help Veterans understand chronic pain and develop strategies they can apply in daily life,” said Amanda Brooks, AMP program manager and Doctor of Physical Therapy. “The goal is to improve overall functioning and enhance quality of life.”

Dr. Eddrina Miller, a psychologist and co-program manager, emphasized the importance of addressing the psychological impact of chronic pain. “The pain experience is multifaceted. AMP subscribes to the biopsychosocial model of chronic pain, which emphasizes the reciprocal relationship between biological, psychological, and social factors. Chronic pain affects the whole person,” she said. “Many of the Veterans we work with experience feelings of helplessness and hopelessness in response to their pain, which can contribute to depression and anxiety. Our role is to help them reframe their pain experience and regain a sense of control.”

The program runs for eight weeks, with participants meeting once a week for two-hour sessions. Each session focuses on a specific topic, such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, posture improvement, and sleep strategies. By the end of the program, Veterans leave with a personalized pain management plan and a toolbox of techniques to continue their progress.

For retired Air Force Tech Sgt. Lavonia Knight, the AMP program was a game-changer. Knight had tried various treatments with little success before enrolling in AMP.

“I needed something structured that would address all aspects of my pain,” Knight said. “AMP provided that by integrating physical, emotional, and mental strategies. The coursework, group exercises, and mindfulness techniques completely changed how I manage pain.”

Knight emphasized that the program’s biggest impact was teaching her not to ignore or deny her pain but to approach it with constructive strategies. “The staff truly wants to help us. They provide resources like meditation, biofeedback, and acupuncture, all of which have been invaluable,” she said. “This program helped me reinvent how I cope with pain.”

Navy Veteran Tom Wishart, who recently completed the program, echoed similar sentiments. Initially referred to AMP after multiple surgeries, Wishart found the group setting particularly beneficial.

“You’re in a room with other people who have the same struggles, and you realize you’re not alone,” he said. “Hearing others’ experiences helped me put my own pain into perspective.”

Wishart appreciated the practical tools AMP provided, including breathing techniques, meditation, and physical therapy exercises. “It’s only two hours a week, so it’s not a huge commitment. I’d tell any Veteran considering it to at least try the first couple of sessions. You can always step away if it’s not for you, but I think most people will find it valuable.”

Dr. Miller also highlighted the transformative power of the group approach. “Many of the Veterans we work with have never had the chance to talk about their pain openly with others. Some hide their pain due to fears of being judged by family or friends, while others have limited support systems,” she said. “Veterans consistently share with us that they feel ‘seen and heard’ in AMP and that they no longer feel alone in their chronic pain journey. That is one of the highest compliments we can receive.”

AMP measures success through pre- and post-treatment data, participant surveys, and national VA program metrics. Dr. Miller explained that improvements are seen in increased physical activity, better mood regulation, reduced pain interference, and greater self-efficacy among participants.

While the AMP program is already making a significant impact, plans are underway to expand its reach. Future developments include specialized versions tailored to the needs of women Veterans and resources for caregivers and family members.

“The Columbia VA Health Care System is committed to offering comprehensive pain management solutions,” Brooks said. “AMP is an important part of that mission, providing Veterans with skills they can use alongside other treatment options.”

For Veterans struggling with chronic pain, AMP offers a pathway to relief and renewed hope. Those interested in learning more can contact the Columbia VA Health Care System’s Pain Behavioral Health Clinic for further information.

For more information about what’s going on at the Veterans medical center, clinic locations and other services available to Veterans in and around Columbia, visit the website https://www.va.gov/columbia-south-carolina-health-care/ and follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, keyword: VAColumbiaSC.