According to National Public Radio, military physicians have been told to examine alternatives, including chiropractic treatment, massage and acupuncture.
This new look at unconventional therapies is aimed at heading off drug dependence on powerful painkillers.
The effort takes on urgency with the 47,000 US troops wounded fighting in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Right now, it is estimated at least 40 percent of veterans entering the VA health system are dealing with pain.
