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Pain Institute of Southern Arizona

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Tucson, AZ
Pain Institute of Southern Arizona

The Pain Institute of Southern Arizona is Arizona’s premier clinic for pain management! We empower people by helping them to get their life back.
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The Pain Institute of Southern Arizona has specialized in interventional pain management for over 15 years. Our mission is to provide compassionate medical management of pain in a friendly, caring environment. Our physicians’ focus is to find the cause and effectively treat pain with the most advanced techniques and technologies available. We understand that pain from an illness or injury can become so severe that it disrupts daily activities and normal routines. The goal is to restore function of the body and improve the quality of life of those suffering from pain.

12/30/2025

“Target the source, relieve the pain.”

Vertebrogenic low back pain is a type of back pain that originates from the vertebrae, the bones that make up the spinal column. It often arises due to degenerative changes, such as disc deterioration, vertebral endplate damage, or inflammation around the spinal bones. Unlike general low back pain, vertebrogenic pain is specifically linked to structural changes in the vertebrae themselves, which can irritate surrounding nerves, ligaments, and soft tissues. Patients typically
experience localized pain in the lower back, which may worsen with prolonged sitting, standing, or certain movements.

The impact of vertebrogenic low back pain extends beyond physical discomfort. Chronic pain can limit mobility, interfere with daily activities, and affect sleep quality, leading to increased stress and reduced quality of life. Management usually involves a combination of approaches, including physical therapy to strengthen supporting muscles, anti-inflammatory medications, lifestyle modifications to reduce strain on the spine, and in some cases, minimally invasive procedures or surgery. Early recognition and targeted treatment are key to preventing further degeneration and maintaining long-term spinal health.

12/29/2025

“Anxiety fuels pain—break the cycle.”

Anxiety can significantly amplify the experience of pain in patients, creating a cycle that is difficult to break. When a person experiences anxiety, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline, which increase muscle tension and heighten sensitivity to pain signals. This means that even mild discomfort can feel more intense, and chronic pain conditions can worsen. Anxiety also affects how the brain processes pain, often making it harder for patients to cope with or ignore discomfort, leading to heightened vigilance and fear around everyday movements or activities that might trigger pain.

Beyond intensifying physical sensations, anxiety has profound emotional and behavioral effects on pain patients. Persistent worry and fear can lead to sleep disturbances, fatigue, irritability, and depression, all of which further exacerbate pain perception. Patients may also avoid certain activities to prevent discomfort, resulting in decreased mobility, muscle weakness, and a reduction in overall quality of life. Addressing anxiety alongside pain management is therefore critical, as calming the mind can help reduce physical symptoms, improve coping strategies,
and support more effective treatment outcomes.

12/26/2025

“From bony bumps to better mobility.”

Bone spurs, also called osteophytes, are bony projections that develop along the edges of bones, often where bones meet at joints. They typically form in response to joint damage from osteoarthritis, repetitive stress, or aging, as the body tries to repair itself. While bone spurs themselves are not always painful, they can cause discomfort if they press on surrounding nerves, ligaments, or tendons. Common areas for bone spurs include the spine, shoulders, hands, hips, knees, and feet.

The effects of bone spurs vary depending on their location and size. In joints, they can limit range of motion, cause stiffness, or contribute to swelling and inflammation. When they press on nerves, especially in the spine, they can lead to pain, tingling, numbness, or weakness along the affected nerve pathway. Treatment often focuses on managing symptoms through physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, injections or in severe cases, surgical removal. Maintaining joint health through exercise, proper posture, and avoiding repetitive stress can help reduce the risk of developing bone spurs.

12/25/2025

🌟Wishing you joy and health this holiday season. Thank you for your trust in us! 🌟

12/24/2025

“Relieve the pressure, regain your power.”

Radiculopathy is a condition that occurs when a nerve in the spine becomes compressed, irritated, or inflamed, often leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness along the path of the affected nerve. It most commonly occurs in the lower back (lumbar radiculopathy) or neck (cervical radiculopathy) and is frequently caused by a herniated disc, bone spurs, or spinal stenosis that press on the nerve roots. The symptoms can vary depending on which nerve is affected, but they often radiate from the spine into the arms, hands, legs, or feet, following the nerve’s pathway.

The impact of radiculopathy goes beyond localized pain. Chronic nerve compression can weaken muscles, reduce mobility, and interfere with daily activities, making routine tasks like walking, lifting, or even sitting uncomfortable. Early diagnosis and treatment—such as physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or in severe cases, surgery— can relieve pressure on the nerve and prevent long-term damage. Managing posture, strengthening supportive muscles, and avoiding activities that exacerbate nerve compression are also key strategies for reducing symptoms and improving quality of life.

12/23/2025

“Daily self-care: your strongest pain relief.”

Daily self-care is crucial for patients managing pain because it provides consistent support for both the body and mind. Simple daily routines— like gentle stretching, deep breathing, taking medications on time, or practicing relaxation techniques—help reduce stress on the nervous system, which can directly lower pain levels. Self-care also helps patients feel more grounded and in control, rather than overwhelmed by their symptoms. By creating small moments of comfort, rest, and calm each day, patients build resilience and prevent pain from becoming the center of their lives.

Integrating self-care into pain management also strengthens the effectiveness of medical treatments. When patients care for their bodies through proper sleep, hydration, movement within safe limits, and stress reduction, their pain responses become easier to manage. Consistent self-care can reduce flare-ups, improve mobility, and enhance emotional well-being—key factors in long-term pain control. It turns pain management into a proactive, empowering process rather than just
reacting to discomfort.

12/22/2025

“Disconnect to reconnect with yourself.”

Digital overload has a subtle but powerful effect on mental health because the brain isn’t built to process nonstop information, alerts, and multitasking. Constant notifications keep the mind in a state of alertness, which slowly raises stress levels and makes it harder to concentrate. Over time, this persistent stimulation can contribute to anxiety, irritability, emotional exhaustion, and a shorter attention span. Even social media use—something that seems harmless—can quietly shape your mood by encouraging comparison, overstimulation, and a sense of never being “caught up.” The hidden impact is that these effects build gradually, making them easy to overlook until you’re already feeling overwhelmed.

Physically, digital overload places strain on the body in ways most people don’t realize. Hours spent hunched over screens lead to tight neck and shoulder muscles, headaches, eye strain, and disrupted posture, which can snowball into chronic discomfort. The blue light from devices interferes with melatonin production, quietly sabotaging sleep quality and making it harder for the body to fully recharge. Even prolonged sitting slows circulation and can affect energy levels, mood, and long-term health. These effects accumulate slowly, making them easy to dismiss—but over time, they can significantly impact both physical wellness and overall quality of life.

12/20/2025

“A solid core supports every move.”

Strengthening your core is one of the most important steps you can take for overall health and physical performance. The core is made up of muscles in your abdomen, lower back, hips, and pelvis, which act as a central support system for your body. A strong core improves posture, stability, and balance, making everyday movements like lifting, bending, and even sitting for long periods safer and more efficient. It
also helps protect your spine by reducing strain on the back and preventing injuries that can result from overcompensation by other muscles. Without a solid core, other parts of the body are forced to work harder, increasing the risk of discomfort, fatigue, and chronic pain.

Beyond injury prevention, core strength has a direct impact on athletic performance and functional fitness. Whether running, swimming, cycling, or practicing yoga, a strong core allows for better coordination, power, and endurance, enhancing your overall ability to move efficiently. It also contributes to better breathing mechanics, balance, and stability during dynamic movements. Incorporating regular core exercises into your fitness routine not only sculpts and tones the midsection but also builds a resilient foundation that supports long-term
mobility, strength, and overall well-being. Strengthening your core is an investment in both your present performance and your future health.

12/19/2025

“Manage the flare, live with care.”

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the immune system, which normally protects the body from infections, mistakenly attacks healthy tissues and organs. This can cause widespread inflammation and damage in areas such as the skin, joints, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain. Because lupus affects multiple systems, its symptoms can vary widely from person to person, but common signs include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever. The exact cause of lupus is unknown, but it is believed to result from a combination of genetic, environmental, and hormonal factors.

Managing lupus often requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing organ damage. Treatments may include medications like anti-inflammatories, immunosuppressants, and corticosteroids, along with lifestyle strategies such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and avoiding triggers like excessive sun exposure. While there is no cure for lupus, early diagnosis and consistent care can help people lead active,
fulfilling lives and minimize the disease’s impact on overall health.

12/18/2025

“Align your body, elevate your day.”
Poor posture puts uneven pressure on your muscles, joints, and spine, which can lead to discomfort and long-term physical problems. When you slouch, lean forward, or sit with rounded shoulders, your body has to work harder to hold you up. This extra strain can cause muscle tightness, stiffness, and pain—especially in the neck, shoulders, and lower back. Over time, poor posture can even contribute to nerve compression, reduced flexibility, and chronic tension headaches. Beyond pain, poor posture can affect how your body functions.

Slouching can limit your lung capacity, making it harder to take deep, efficient breaths, which can lower energy levels. It can also compress your stomach and intestines, affecting digestion, and influence blood flow, contributing to fatigue. Even your mood and confidence can be impacted, as posture is closely linked with hormones, stress levels, and how energized you feel. Maintaining good posture helps your body move more efficiently, reduces strain, and supports better overall health.

12/17/2025

“Age well by living well.”

Longevity is shaped by everyday choices, and some of the most powerful secrets come from simple, consistent lifestyle habits. Eating a nutrient-dense diet—rich in whole foods, colorful fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats—helps reduce inflammation and fuels the body with the vitamins and antioxidants it needs to repair and thrive. Regular movement, whether it’s walking, strength training, yoga, or swimming, keeps the heart strong, muscles active, and joints flexible. Sleep is also a major longevity booster, allowing your brain and body to
recover, regulate hormones, and maintain a strong immune system. These habits build a solid foundation for aging well.

Beyond physical health, longevity is also supported by emotional and social well-being. Staying socially connected, maintaining purpose, and managing stress through mindfulness, hobbies, or relaxation techniques all contribute to a longer, healthier life. People who age well often nurture strong relationships, stay mentally active, and engage in activities that bring joy and meaning. When combined, these habits create a life that not only adds years, but makes those years more vibrant, energetic, and fulfilling.

12/16/2025

“Water heals where movement hurts.”

Swimming can reduce pain because the water supports your body, taking pressure off your joints, spine, and muscles. When you’re in the water, you weigh a fraction of your normal body weight, which means movements that might hurt on land—like bending, stretching, or walking—become much easier and more comfortable. The gentle resistance of the water also helps strengthen muscles without the impact or strain that comes from traditional exercise. This combination of support and resistance allows you to move more freely, reduce stiffness, and improve overall mobility.

Swimming also boosts circulation and helps relax tight muscles, both of which play a big role in reducing pain. Warm water especially can soothe sore areas, calm inflammation, and improve flexibility. The rhythmic movement of swimming promotes deeper breathing, reduces stress, and releases endorphins—the body’s natural painkillers. Over time, swimming can help build stronger muscles that support painful joints or areas, leading to long-term relief and better physical function.

Address

4881 E. Grant Road Suite 201
Tucson, AZ
85712

Opening Hours

Monday	7am - 5pm
Tuesday	7am - 5pm
Wednesday	7am - 5pm
Thursday	7am - 5pm

Website

https://pisapain.com/

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Our Story

The Pain Institute of Southern Arizona is Arizona’s premier clinic for pain management, physical medicine, and physical rehabilitation. The Pain Institute of Southern Arizona delivers high quality, state-of-the-art treatments and procedures that help patients find relief from their pain and return to an enjoyable and fulfilling quality of life.

Driven by a team of renowned interventional pain management specialists, the Pain Institute of Southern Arizona is dedicated to the evaluation, diagnosis, and treatment of a variety of pain conditions, such as sciatica, arthritis, neuropathy, spinal stenosis, and degenerative disc disease.

When it comes to pain management, not all pain clinics are alike. What sets the Pain Institute of Southern Arizona apart are the physicians. Many pain physicians are not boarded, board-eligible or fellowship trained. Melissa Seelbach, M.D., Ph.D., Kenneth Gossler M.D., Efrain I. Cubillo, M.D., Eric Cornidez M.D., and Helen Chan, M.D., are Diplomates of the American Board of Anesthesiology, Fellowship Trained Interventional Pain Specialists and Board Certified in Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine. Jose Chavez, D.O., is a Diplomate of the American Board of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and is Board Certified in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and Pain Medicine.