Chiropractic profession honors veterans for service

November 9, 2010 — The men and women of our nation’s Armed Forces make huge sacrifices in service to our country, including sacrifices to their health.

This Veterans Day, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) would like to thank veterans for their service and remind them that doctors of chiropractic who work with VA medical centers across the country are available to help restore their health and wellness.

Members of the military serve in austere conditions and routinely wear gear weighing up to 80 pounds. A February 2010 Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) report cites “diseases of Musculoskeletal System/Connective System” such as back pain as the No. 1 ailment of Iraq and Afghanistan veterans accessing VA treatment.

Doctors of chiropractic are experts in the treatment of neuromusculoskeletal problems and their natural approach can eliminate or reduce the need for drugs and surgery in some cases.

ACA has worked diligently over the years to ensure that America’s veterans have access to chiropractic services. Today, more than 30 VA treatment facilities in the United States offer chiropractic care. VA healthcare providers can also refer veterans to doctors of chiropractic in their local communities.

“America’s heroes simply do not have to suffer in silence with the common neuromusculoskeletal ailments associated with their service,’” says ACA President Dr. Rick McMichael. “This is one time when they do not have to ‘tough it out.’ It is the chiropractic profession’s honor to be a part of the healthcare system that treats our veterans. We are here to serve them.”

Source: American Chiropractic Association, www.acatoday.org