BUTLER TWP — VA Butler Healthcare is one of a few VA facilities with an on-site chiropractor.

"There are few hospitals in America that have chiropractors on staff," said Dr. C. William McCaslin, staff chiropractor at the Butler VA, in a VA news release. "I was originally hired as a contractor four years ago, but now I am here full time.

"It is important for the VA to offer these chiropractic services because many veterans have issues from their military service."

The average soldier might carry 55 pounds or more of combat equipment in the field, according the news release. Many service members put their body under repeated and continual strain in less than ideal conditions.

According to Rep. Rob Filner, D-Calif, the House Veterans Affairs Committee Chairman, more than 52 percent of military service members are diagnosed with musculosketal disorders.

Dr. McCaslin sees the increasing need for chiropractic services for veterans.

"Our veterans are living longer, and some have been suffering 20 years or more with pain. Veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan have a long life ahead of them, too.

"Here at the Butler VA, I can coordinate with the primary care team to restore more function to the body and help reduce their pain."