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Pain rehabilitation program

The Outpatient Pain Rehabilitation Program (OPRP) is based on an interdisciplinary model of care for patients with chronic pain. The program uses multiple specialties and alternative approaches to manage pain. In addition to your current treatment plan, an individualized plan of care will be developed. You will learn new ways to manage your pain and improve your daily functioning. The goal for every Veteran in OPRP is to have a better quality of life.

COVID-19 virtual program

Due to the pandemic, the OPRP is currently a virtual program that meets for 4 hours per week for 8 weeks (rather than 3 hours on Tuesdays). We do not reimburse for travel expenses due to it being a virtual program.

What to expect

Once accepted into the program, you will participate with 6 to12 other veterans who also experience chronic pain.

Treatment approach

Each week, you will participate in group learning sessions, interactive recreational therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy.

Scope of service

Veterans are referred by their Patient Aligned Care Team or provider with recommendations to receive OPRP services. We will then screen Veterans to determine their medical stability, goals, and current limitations. The purpose of this program is to provide information and skills training to a group of Veterans who experience chronic pain. Veterans will receive individualized treatment plan based on the results of their assessments. The goal of this treatment plan is to help Veterans improve their function and manage their chronic pain. The OPRP includes a team approach which has been shown to be an effective treatment for chronic pain. Clinicians who specialize in pain and pain-related problems will provide the treatment.

Topics covered

• Alternative approaches to pain relief
• Relaxation
• Sleep hygiene
• Tai Chi
• Chair yoga
• Acupuncture
• Healthy eating and nutrition
• Body movement and posture
• Family systems and communicating with loved ones
• Information on pain medication
• Co-morbid mental health issues
• Substance misuse and abuse

Outpatient Pain Rehabilitation Program team

Studies show an interdisciplinary approach to pain management is effective in improving function, quality of life, and overall well-being. Therefore physicians, psychologists, recreational therapists, pharmacists, nutritionists, physical/occupational therapists, vocational rehabilitation counselors, and chaplains all participate in the program.

If you are interested in the OPRP, please contact your primary care provider to request a referral.

Outcomes

The OPRP has been successfully working with patients with chronic pain since 2012. OPRP has been accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) since 2015. More than 200 Veterans have successfully participated in the program.

Veterans who have participated in the OPRP have reported many positive outcomes including (but not limited to) increases in mobility, vitality, quality of life indicators, and confidence in managing their chronic pain symptoms. Furthermore, participants report a decrease in symptoms of depression, fear of movement, and negative affect.

Testimonials from Veterans

“As a veteran who’s been dealing with chronic pain for 15+ years, I thought I knew all there was to know about pain. Boy was I wrong. The OPRP not only refreshed some techniques on dealing with pain, but I also learned new physical techniques that are fun and help me.“

“Pain school provided insight of how you can take steps to manage pain. Because of what I learned in pain school, I have made my life much easier.”

“The program helped tremendously in providing the use of the tools to cope with pain and problems. I found that methods learned helped in many aspects of my life, not just the pain.”