Lake City Veteran: VA Won't Cover Acupuncture Treatment

Sade Malloy | First Coast News | April 26, 2013

LAKE CITY, Fla. -- A Lake City veteran said acupuncture is the only way to get his life back as he deals with excruciating pain after losing his leg.

Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine centered around tiny needles that when placed throughout the body are believed to restore health and remove energy imbalances.

But the alternative treatment that he said was once covered by the VA is no longer an option.

"It feels just like somebody is twisting off your leg. The pain, the best way to describe it, is excruciating," said Glance.

In 2006, the veteran, who spent three years in the U.S. Navy, used a vein from his leg as part of his triple bypass surgery. The site where the vein was removed became infected. Two amputations and seven years later, Glance is trying to regain his quality of life.