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Abilene VA Clinic introduces chiropractic care with new specialist

Dr. Paul Bickford performs a preliminary exam of a Veterans neck as part of their chiropractic care at the Abilene VA CBOC.
Newly reporting Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine. Paul Bickford performs an exam on a Veteran at the Abilene VA Community Based Outpatient Clinic. Dr. Bickford, a U.S. Navy Veteran himself, is also certified in acupuncture, brings unique skills to the WTVAHCS in support of our Veteran's whole health.

By Michael Cole, Public Affairs Officer

The Abilene VA Clinic is excited to announce the addition of comprehensive chiropractic and acupuncture services, now available to Veterans as part of the facility’s ongoing commitment to whole health and pain management.

Join us in welcoming Dr. Paul Bickford, who arrived at West Texas VA Health Care System (WTVAHCS) earlier this month. A U.S. Navy Veteran himself, Bickford brings a wealth of experience in holistic health to West Texas Veterans. He will primarily serve patients at the Abilene VA Clinic but will also dedicate time conducting clinics in Big Spring, TX, at George H. O'Brien, Jr. VAMC.

Expertise in Chiropractic and Acupuncture

Bickford is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine with additional certification in acupuncture—a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves the insertion of fine needles to stimulate specific points on the body. Together, these modalities form a powerful approach to managing pain, reducing reliance on medications, and enhancing overall well-being.

A Natural Approach to Pain Relief

Chiropractic care is widely recognized for its effectiveness in alleviating neck pain, headaches, lower back pain, and other musculoskeletal issues. By realigning the spine and improving nervous system function, chiropractic treatments can provide pain relief and restore mobility. When combined with acupuncture, which helps modulate pain signals and promote natural healing, these therapies offer a holistic path to recovery.

Part of a Whole Health Strategy

The focus on whole health is central to the VA’s approach to pain management. Integrating chiropractic and acupuncture services allows Veterans to explore non-invasive options that target pain directly at its source, while also supporting overall health and resilience. This comprehensive strategy aims to reduce the use of opioid medications and improve quality of life for Veterans experiencing chronic pain conditions.

Supporting Veterans’ Well-Being

"We are proud to expand our services with professionals like Bickford, who specialize in evidence-based therapies," said Robert Hoff, Associate Director, WTVAHCS. "Our goal is to provide Veterans with diverse, effective options for managing pain that enhance their overall health and quality of life."

Veterans interested in learning more about chiropractic and acupuncture treatments can contact the Abilene VA Clinic directly or speak with their healthcare providers about scheduling an appointment. As part of their commitment to whole health, the VA remains dedicated to offering innovative and personalized care tailored to each veteran’s needs.