Chronic pain is pain that persists for more than three months or continues beyond the expected healing time. It may be constant or intermittent and can affect physical function, sleep, mood and overall quality of life.
Chronic pain is one of the most common conditions managed through the DVA Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP). Support is typically practical, function-focused and delivered as part of a broader management plan rather than a single solution.
Pain management equipment
DVA may fund equipment to help reduce pain, improve comfort and support daily function:
TENS machines for nerve-based pain relief
Heat and cold therapy products
Compression supports such as knee braces, gloves and abdominal binders
Postural supports and braces
Pressure-relieving overlays for comfort in bed or seating
Orthopaedic supports and bracing
Used to support joints, reduce strain and improve stability:
Knee, ankle and shoulder supports
Wrist and hand compression gloves
Back supports and abdominal binders
Neck supports in specific cases
These are typically lower-level interventions used during activity or flare-ups
Mobility and functional aids
When pain affects movement or endurance:
Walking sticks or frames
Wheelchairs in more complex cases
Transfer aids and supports
These aim to maintain independence and reduce pain associated with movement
Seating and postural support
For veterans who sit for extended periods:
Ergonomic chairs such as clerical chairs under RAP
Lumbar supports and positioning aids
Pressure cushions where clinically indicated
Daily living aids
To reduce strain during everyday tasks:
Kitchen aids and adaptive tools
Dressing and bathing aids
Grip supports and assistive devices
These can significantly reduce day-to-day pain load and improve independence
Clinical and allied health support
Chronic pain management is rarely just equipment. DVA also supports:
Physiotherapy
Occupational therapy
Exercise physiology
Pain specialist input where required
Equipment is typically prescribed alongside these services as part of a coordinated care plan
Medication support including medicinal cannabis
In some cases, DVA may also fund medications as part of chronic pain management, including:
Standard analgesic medications
Adjunct medications for neuropathic or chronic pain
Medicinal cannabis products including CBD oil and THC-based treatments
Access to medicinal cannabis requires prescription by an authorised clinician and approval in line with TGA and DVA requirements, usually where conventional treatments have not been effective
Important things to know
Support is based on clinical need and eligibility, not preference
Some items and medications require prior approval
Most supports are conservative and non-invasive
The focus is on improving function, independence and quality of life
Practical take
DVA support for chronic pain is best understood as a combination approach, where equipment, therapy and where appropriate medication work together to help you remain active, independent and functioning as well as possible
