Pain Institute of Southern Arizona

12/01/2025

PISA is thrilled to be the title sponsor for the 2026 Senior Olympic Festival🌟🎉🌟

🏅 Senior Olympic Festival 2026 🏅
Presented by Pain Institute of Southern Arizona
Proudly supported by ICCU

It’s almost game time, Tucson!
Adults 50+ are invited to join us Jan. 3–Feb. 1 for the 41st annual Senior Olympic Festival — a month packed with friendly competition, fitness, and all-around fun.

Spike it, swing it, shoot it, strike it… from pickleball and bowling to archery, golf, bridge, tennis, and more, there’s an event for every level!

Registration is open NOW and closes Dec. 26, 2025: tucsonparks.info/seniorolympicfestivaltucson

Let the games begin!

11/27/2025

🍂 Happy Thanksgiving !🍂

11/26/2025

“Targeted relief, right where it hurts.”

An epidural steroid injection (ESI) is a minimally invasive procedure used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the spine. It involves injecting a corticosteroid medication, often combined with a local anesthetic, into the epidural space—the area surrounding the spinal nerves and spinal cord. This targeted delivery helps decrease inflammation around irritated nerves, which can result from conditions such as herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica. The procedure is typically performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precise placement of the medication.

The effects of an epidural steroid injection can vary, but many patients experience significant pain relief within a few days to weeks, which can allow them to participate more effectively in physical therapy and daily activities. While the injection does not cure the underlying condition, it can reduce symptoms, improve mobility, and potentially delay or prevent the need for surgery. Most patients can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, though minor soreness at the injection site is common. Repeated injections may be recommended based on symptom relief and medical guidance.

11/25/2025

“When a disc slips, your body signals.”

A herniated disc occurs when the soft, gel-like center of a spinal disc (nucleus pulposus) pushes through a tear in its tougher outer layer (annulus fibrosus). This can irritate or compress nearby spinal nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the back, neck, arms, or legs, depending on the location of the herniation. Herniated discs are most common in the lower back (lumbar spine) and neck (cervical spine) and can result from age-related degeneration, sudden injury, heavy lifting, or repetitive strain.

Treatment for a herniated disc often starts conservatively with rest, physical therapy, pain-relief medications, or targeted injections to reduce inflammation. Most people experience gradual improvement over several weeks, but in severe or persistent cases, surgical intervention may be needed to remove or repair the damaged portion of the disc. Maintaining good posture, core strength, and proper body mechanics can help prevent further injury and support long-term spinal
health. With appropriate care, many individuals regain mobility and return to normal activities.

11/24/2025

PISA is the proud TITLE sponsor for the 2026 Senior Olympic Festival!! 🏅🏓⛳️🏹

🏅 Senior Olympic Festival 2026 🏅
Presented by Pain Institute of Southern Arizona
Proudly supported by ICCU

It’s almost game time, Tucson!
Adults 50+ are invited to join us Jan. 3–Feb. 1 for the 41st annual Senior Olympic Festival — a month packed with friendly competition, fitness, and all-around fun.

Spike it, swing it, shoot it, strike it… from pickleball and bowling to archery, golf, bridge, tennis, and more, there’s an event for every level!

Registration is open NOW and closes Dec. 26, 2025: tucsonparks.info/seniorolympicfestivaltucson

Let the games begin!

11/24/2025

“Spinal stenosis—small spaces, big impact.”

Spinal stenosis is a condition where the spaces within the spine narrow, placing pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. This narrowing can occur in the neck (cervical spine) or lower back (lumbar spine) and is most often caused by age-related changes such as arthritis, bone spurs, or thickening of ligaments around the spine. The result is irritation or compression of the nerves, which can lead to symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms, legs, or back. In some
cases, people may also experience problems with balance or walking, especially when standing upright for long periods.

Although spinal stenosis can’t always be reversed, its symptoms can be effectively managed. Treatments often include physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, and targeted injections to reduce pain and inflammation. For severe cases, surgery may be considered to create more space for the nerves and relieve pressure. Staying active, maintaining good posture, and strengthening the muscles that support the spine can also help improve mobility and reduce discomfort. With
proper care, many people with spinal stenosis can return to an active and fulfilling lifestyle.

11/23/2025

“Healing begins where nature meets you.”

Connecting with nature has been shown to ease pain by calming both the mind and the body. Natural environments reduce stress hormone levels, lower blood pressure, and relax muscle tension—all of which can heighten pain when left unchecked. The sights, sounds, and smells of nature activate the parasympathetic nervous system, the body’s “rest and restore” mode, helping to quiet the overactive pain signals often associated with chronic conditions. Even short walks outside or moments spent near greenery can trigger the release of endorphins and
serotonin, the body’s natural mood and pain regulators, creating a sense of relief and grounding.

Beyond the physical benefits, time in nature nurtures emotional healing and resilience. It offers a break from digital overload and constant mental stimulation, allowing the brain to rest and reset. This sense of calm and connection can shift how people perceive their pain— reducing feelings of isolation and helplessness that often accompany chronic conditions. In essence, nature becomes more than a backdrop; it acts as a partner in healing, reminding the body how to restore balance
and the mind how to find peace, even in the presence of pain.

11/22/2025

“Healing powered by your own blood.”

Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy is a regenerative treatment that uses a patient’s own blood to promote healing in damaged tissues, tendons, joints, or skin. The procedure begins with drawing a small sample of the patient’s blood, which is then placed in a centrifuge to separate its components. This process concentrates the platelets—cells rich in growth factors responsible for tissue repair and regeneration—into a layer of plasma. The resulting platelet-rich plasma is then carefully injected into the targeted area under sterile conditions, often guided by
ultrasound for precision.

Once injected, the PRP releases growth factors that stimulate the body’s natural healing processes, encouraging new cell growth, improved circulation, and reduced inflammation. PRP is commonly used for conditions such as tendon injuries, osteoarthritis, and muscle strains, and has also gained popularity in cosmetic medicine for skin rejuvenation and hair restoration. Because it uses the patient’s own biological material, the risk of allergic reactions or complications is minimal. While results vary, many patients experience gradual improvement in pain, mobility, and tissue function over several weeks following treatment.

11/22/2025

What a beautiful day to celebrate community, health, and cycling! 🚴‍♀️ The Pain Institute of Southern Arizona is a proud sponsor of El Tour de Tucson — one of the Southwest’s most exciting events.

Come visit our booth, meet our team, and learn how we help keep Tucson moving and pain-free. Let’s ride together toward better health and cycling! 🚴‍♀️

11/21/2025

We had a fantastic time at our 401(k) Brunch & Learn with Wellspring Financial Partners! 🥐☕

A huge thank you to Deidre Kochanski for leading an engaging and informative session for the Pain Institute of Southern Arizona team. Our staff learned valuable insights on how to make the most of their 401(k) plans, plan for the future, and take confident steps toward financial wellness.

Empowering our team with knowledge is just as important as caring for our patients — and today’s event was a great reminder of that!

11/21/2025

“The pain of modern living.”

The increasing prevalence of conditions like fibromyalgia, peripheral neuropathy, and back pain reflects a complex mix of lifestyle, environmental, and medical factors. Modern sedentary lifestyles— characterized by prolonged sitting, poor posture, and limited physical activity—have significantly contributed to chronic musculoskeletal pain and nerve-related issues. At the same time, chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and poor nutrition can heighten pain sensitivity and inflammation, triggering or worsening conditions like fibromyalgia. The widespread use of technology has also led to “digital strain” on the body and nervous system, compounding physical and mental fatigue that can manifest as chronic pain.

Advances in medical awareness and diagnostic methods have also played a role in the rise of these conditions being recognized and reported. Many individuals who were once undiagnosed or misdiagnosed now receive proper identification thanks to greater awareness among healthcare providers. Additionally, the aging population and increasing rates of metabolic disorders such as diabetes contribute to the growth of peripheral neuropathy and other pain-related syndromes. Together, these factors reveal not just a rise in cases, but a shift in how modern life interacts with the body’s stress and pain systems—turning chronic pain into one of today’s most pressing health challenges.

11/20/2025

“Precision relief for head and neck pain.”

Occipital nerve blocks are a medical procedure used to relieve pain originating from the occipital nerves, which run from the top of the spinal cord through the scalp. This treatment involves injecting a local anesthetic, sometimes combined with a steroid, near the occipital nerves at the back of the head. By targeting these nerves directly, the injection can reduce inflammation and interrupt pain signals traveling to the brain, providing relief for conditions such as occipital neuralgia, chronic headaches, or migraines. The procedure is typically performed in a clinic setting and is relatively quick, often taking only a few minutes.

The effects of an occipital nerve block can vary depending on the individual and the underlying cause of the pain. Some people experience immediate relief, while for others, it may take a few days to notice improvement. In some cases, the relief can last for weeks or even months, and repeat injections may be scheduled if necessary. While generally considered safe, potential side effects can include temporary soreness at the injection site, mild bruising, or, rarely, infection.
Occipital nerve blocks are often used as part of a broader pain management plan, helping patients reduce their reliance on oral medications and improve daily function.