Understanding Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is not a single disease but rather an umbrella term encompassing over 100 different types of joint-related conditions.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis, a condition that affects millions worldwide, can often feel like a formidable foe, stealthily encroaching upon our mobility and vitality. At Napa Pain Institute, we recognize the profound impact arthritis can have on your life, and we’re here to provide clarity and relief.

The most common forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. While each type manifests uniquely, they all share one common denominator: inflammation of the joints.

 

Symptoms:

Arthritis symptoms can vary widely depending on the type and severity of the condition. However, common indicators may include:

  • Persistent joint pain
  • Stiffness and reduced range of motion
  • Swelling and tenderness
  • Fatigue and malaise
  • Inflammation of surrounding tissues
  • Deformities in severe cases

These symptoms can not only disrupt daily activities but also significantly impact your overall quality of life.

Causes of Arthritis of the Spine

1. Age-Related Wear and Tear:
Over time, the natural aging process can contribute to the breakdown of the spinal joints.
2. Genetic Factors:
Some individuals may be predisposed to developing spinal arthritis due to genetic factors.
3. Injury or Trauma:
Previous injuries or trauma to the spine can increase the risk of arthritis.
4. Obesity:
Excess weight puts additional stress on the spine, contributing to wear and tear.
5. Joint Infections:
Infections affecting the spine can lead to inflammation and arthritis.

Your Path to Relief

Understanding the complexities of spinal arthritis is the first step toward effective management. At Napa Pain Institute, we are committed to partnering with you on your journey to relief. Our personalized and multidisciplinary approach aims to address the root cause of your pain and enhance your overall well-being.

Real Stories of Hope & Healing

Our Patients share their journeys

David B.

“She changed the quality of my life so drastically and in such a positive way I can honestly tell people that she and Napa Pain Institute changed my life.”

Carolyn C.

“I highly, highly recommend Napa Pain Institute for anyone dealing with chronic or acute pain. They will find you a solution. And they are all wonderful.

Bruce F.

“I would easily give them and their facility the highest rating. They care and you are always treated with respect”.

Jeff B.

"I transferred to Napa Pain Institute 3 years ago and it was the best thing I have ever done."

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DR. MELANIE D. JOHANSSON, MD, FACEP

Dr. Johansson comes to us as a fellowship-trained and board-certified pain management specialist with nearly a decade of experience. She completed her fellowship training at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, MD where she then became the associate program director of the pain medicine fellowship and an assistant professor of military and emergency medicine. She graduated from the Virginia Commonwealth University School of Medicine in Richmond, Virginia, was Pre-medicine at San Diego State University, and received her BSN from Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Her breadth of experience comes from a full career of serving in the United States Navy where she was the recipient of multiple academic and military service awards including a Meritorious Service Medal, three Navy Commendation Medals, and numerous other individual, unit, and campaign awards. She has multiple published works and is the founding member of a military Pain Medicine Special Interest Group with the American Society of Regional Anesthesia.

In her free time, Dr. Johansson enjoys traveling, is newly married, loves dogs, and enjoys cooking and baking, as well as other creative pursuits. She has a particular interest in advanced procedural techniques for chronic pain relief and the effects of lifestyle on pain and healing. She looks forward to continuing our mission of providing our patients with the best care, every day.

Eric Grigsby, MD, MBA

CEO & Founder of Neurovations

Dr. Eric Grigsby enjoys a national reputation for excellence in the field of Pain Management. He has a background as a researcher, teacher and clinician and brings over 30 years of clinical experience to the Napa Pain Institute. Dr. Grigsby attended elementary and secondary school in his hometown of Knoxville, Tennessee, and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology and Economics from Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island. He formed an interest in Pain Management as a career while working at Boston Children’s Hospital in the Department of Orthopedic Surgery.

After graduating from Boston University Medical School in 1984, Dr. Grigsby trained in General Surgery, Anesthesiology, and Pain Management at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota. He was invited to join the Medical Staff and teach at the Mayo Medical School until moving to California in 1989. The Dean of the University of California at Davis Medical Center then invited Dr. Grigsby to establish their first Pain Management Center, where he served as Medical Director until 1992. Following his post at UC Davis, Dr. Grigsby established his private Pain Management practice in Napa, California.

Today, he and his staff of over 50 professionals consult with patients throughout Northern California and the western United States.  More recently, Dr Grigsby completed his Masters in Business Administration from Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business. He speaks nationally on topics such as non-operative treatment of spinal disorders, the safe use of medications for the treatment of pain, and the legal and regulatory issues relating to the proper treatment of patients with chronic illness.