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Enable knowledge that is Veteran informed, raising awareness of the unique circumstances of Veterans and mobilizing information to influence policies and programs that impact our Veterans and their families.

Improved well-being of service members, Veterans, and their families, living with chronic pain.

The CPCoE was established in 2020 as a dedicated research centre focused on improving the understanding of chronic pain among Veterans. Chronic pain affects roughly 20% of Canadians, but Veterans, especially those with service-related injuries, are twice as likely to experience it. Female Veterans are impacted at an even higher rate than their male counterparts. Our work is rooted in the belief that Veteran voices must guide research and solutions, ensuring that every initiative reflects their unique challenges and lived experiences.

The CPCoE advances knowledge and solutions for Veteran-specific chronic pain by partnering with leading researchers and institutions. We identify research priorities in collaboration with Veterans and work with research partners to generate evidence-based insights. These findings are mobilized to influence policies, programs, and practices that improve the well-being of Veterans and their families. By raising awareness of the unique circumstances Veterans face, we help create meaningful change that supports pain management and reconnection with life.

Veteran engagement is at the heart of everything we do. From the very beginning, we have worked closely with Veterans to define research priorities and ensure our work addresses real-world challenges. This ongoing collaboration, through consultations and our Advisory Council for Veterans, allows us to develop a deeper understanding of the day-to-day impact of chronic pain on Veterans and their families. Guided by this insight, we design research that delivers practical solutions and drives systemic improvements. Our ultimate vision is clear: improved well-being for service members, Veterans, and their families living with chronic pain.

When a Canadian joins the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF), the military becomes responsible for their health care. After service, Veterans transition back to provincial and territorial health systems, a process that impacts each person differently. Veterans, especially those with service-related injuries, often face unique health challenges, including chronic pain.
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Chronic pain cannot be cured, but it can be managed. All Veterans experience pain differently, and education is key to understanding its impact on your life and family. According to Veterans Affairs Canada, 63% of Veterans living with chronic pain also experience a mental health condition. These conditions are highly interrelated, requiring a holistic approach to care.

Veterans with recognized service-related injuries receive treatment benefits from Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC). These benefits provide access to health services not available through provincial systems. For some Veterans, education and treatment benefits are enough to improve well-being. For others, a higher level of care is needed.