From Chronic Pain to New Possibilities: Syracuse VA’s AMP Program Delivers Life-Changing Results

Veterans receiving care in the Syracuse VA Health Care System are finding new hope through the Active Management of Pain (AMP) program — a holistic, non-invasive national VA initiative that brings together an interdisciplinary team combining behavioral health and physical therapy expertise to address the many factors that contribute to chronic pain. The program is redefining pain care by helping Veterans not only manage their symptoms, but better understand their pain and regain control of their comfort, mobility, and overall quality of life.

“A big part of what we do is a non-medicated approach to pain management,” said Dr. Samantha Saggese, Doctor of Physical Therapy at the Rome Community Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC). “We give active strategies to help Veterans reduce and manage pain.”

Dr. Saggese explained that AMP uses pain neuroscience education and a biopsychosocial model, allowing clinicians and Veterans to identify the many influences that can intensify pain, even when the underlying condition does not worsen. Stress, disrupted sleep, anxiety and emotional strain are among the factors that can elevate pain levels. Helping Veterans recognize and manage these stressors, she said, is central to improving overall well-being.

AMP is an eight-week structured program offered virtually, with in-person options available when needed. The virtual format allows Veterans from across Central New York to meet in small groups of six to eight, learn techniques, share experiences, and build practical strategies for managing pain. 

“It’s a new program and a new way of thinking about pain,” said Lisa Joyce, social worker and AMP team member. “Instead of saying, ‘Here’s a medication or an injection,’ we take a pause. We look at all the external factors influencing the pain and focus on what Veterans can control.”

In his 90s, Veteran Jack Tyler was warned that without increasing his physical activity, he risked becoming wheelchair bound. Before starting the AMP program in late 2024, he could not walk more than a quarter mile without significant pain.  

Today, Mr. Tyler is defying the odds by walking four to five miles a day. He credits his remarkable turnaround to the coaching, accountability, and the encouragement he received though AMP. 

 “Let your pain be a speed bump instead of a roadblock,” Mr. Tyler said. 

What began as a serious health warning has become a powerful example of resilience, determination, and the impact of a dedicated support team. 

Michael Naler represents another remarkable AMP success story. When he joined the program in early 2025, he depended on a cane to move around. Less than a year later, he often leaves the cane at home, walking with renewed confidence and independence. 

“Before the AMP class, I just dealt with the pain the best I could,” said Naler, a 20-year U.S. Army Veteran who sustained back and neck injuries while serving as a paratrooper with the Army’s 82nd Airborne Division. “I was taking three to four thousand milligrams of Motrin every day, way too much for my body to handle. Thankfully, my doctor got me back on the right track.”

The program, which incorporates education on sleep, cognition, exercise, and mindfulness—all key factors that can influence pain—has taught Naler how to manage his symptoms and improve his quality of life. “Before AMP, my pain level stayed around an eight every day. Now, it’s usually around a one or two,” he said. 

Upon completing the eight-week AMP program, Veterans can continue their progress through a variety of follow-up resources, including pain management groups, nutrition programs, Women Veteran programs, mindfulness sessions, yoga, tai chi and more.

For Veterans struggling with chronic pain, AMP offers a path toward relief, resilience, and a better quality of life. To learn more about the program, ask your VA provider to place a pain AIM consult and specify "AMP."