Whether on land, at sea, or in the air, military life — in peace and in war — can be hard on the body. A 2021 Rand Corporation study estimated that 31-44 percent of active duty service members suffer from chronic pain, making it the leading cause of reduced readiness. Accordingly, veteran service members suffer from a disproportionately higher prevalence of chronic pain when compared to the nonveteran population.
In spring 2023, The J forged an agreement with the Birmingham Veterans Affairs Medical Center that opened up indoor pool access to the VA’s patients.
To date, nearly 160 veterans have attended the VA’s aquatic therapy program at The J. Due to the number of veterans who experience chronic pain, the program has quickly become the most sought-after therapy referral in the Birmingham VA’s Physical Medicine and Rehab Department.
Lifestyle change
“Aquatic therapy is an effective form of treatment for joint pain,” explains Sarah Goodman, physical medicine and rehab services supervisor at the VA. “The water supports weight and reduces the amount of pressure on the joints, allowing our veterans to increase range of motion in their joints and move with less pain.” In addition, she adds, water provides resistance that can help build muscle strength without putting excessive stress on joints and muscles.
Kristin Gentz, an aquatics specialist with the VA, sums up the effect the program has on veterans as “providing hope” along with a lifestyle change. “It’s building healthy habits, getting in the pool, getting in the gym, and the social interaction they’re getting with other [LJCC] members. It’s rewarding to see the whole aspect of what happens here.”
Not only do many veterans report a decrease in chronic pain thanks to the program, but multiple veterans who spent years using a walker, rollator, or wheelchair have graduated to using a cane or no assistive device for walking.
“The Birmingham VA is thankful for the partnership with The J and the support this collaboration can provide for our nation’s heroes,” Sarah says.