Back Pain Doctor in Oklahoma City, Norman & Yukon: Get Lasting Relief at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers

Introduction: Back Pain is Common, But Help is Available as Dr. Christensen will work another 25 years

Back pain is one of the most common medical complaints in the United States, just behind the common cold. It affects people of all ages and walks of life—often disrupting work, sleep, relationships, and daily activity. Whether you're dealing with lower back stiffness, mid-back spasms, or radiating pain down your legs, finding the right back pain doctor is the first step to getting your life back on track. We are all aging, but we don’t have to hurt while doing so!

At Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers, our double board-certified pain doctors specialize in diagnosing and treating all types of spinal and musculoskeletal pain. With clinics located in Oklahoma City, Norman, and Yukon, our team offers expert care close to home. We believe no one should have to live in pain—and we’re here to help.

What Causes Back Pain?

Back pain can arise from a very wide range of sources. Sometimes it's due to a clear injury, like a car accident or heavy lifting incident. Other times, it's the result of years of repetitive stress, poor posture, aging, or even the things we ingest on a daily basis. The most common causes our back pain doctors see include:

1. Bulging and Herniated Discs

Spinal discs act as cushions between your vertebrae. When a disc weakens or bulges out of place, it can compress nearby motor nerves and cause sharp, shooting pain—especially in the lower back.

2. Degenerative Disc Disease

With age, discs can lose hydration and flexibility. This breakdown can lead to chronic pain, especially when moving, bending, or sitting for long periods as the disc is surrounded by nerves.

3. Sciatica

This condition occurs when the sciatic nerve—running from the lower spine into the legs—is irritated or compressed. It causes radiating pain, numbness, or tingling that can affect daily function. When disc ruptures are severe, cauda equina syndrome can occur. This is very rare but if it occurs an immediate visit to the nearest emergency room is always warranted.

4. Arthritis of the Spine

Spinal arthritis, also known as facet joint osteoarthritis, causes inflammation and stiffness in the joints of the spine. This can lead to persistent back pain, especially in the morning or after long periods of rest. Secondly, as disc get older and get thinner (degenerate) they also put more pressure on the facet joints at that respective level.

5. Strains, Sprains, and Muscle Imbalances

Overuse, sudden movements, or poor lifting mechanics can lead to soft tissue injuries in the back. These are among the most common—and most treatable—causes of back pain and often resolve on their own with time.

Lower Back vs. Middle Back Pain: What’s the Difference?

Lower Back Pain (Lumbar Spine)

Most patients we see complain of lower back pain, or discomfort in the lumbar region. This type of pain can result from disc issues, sciatica, or muscle strains and often affects people who sit or lift frequently.

Middle Back Pain (Thoracic Spine)

Middle back pain is less common but equally disruptive. It may stem from poor shoulder alignment, scoliosis, or pinched nerves between the shoulder blades. This pain may radiate to the chest, stomach, or arms. Often due to poor lifting habits as the lower thoracic spine and upper lumbar spine can be the fulcrum when patients try to lift heavy objects with their back and not with their legs.

When Should You See a Back Pain Doctor?

You may be tempted to tough it out, but ignoring back pain often leads to worsening symptoms and chronic nerve problems. You should consult a back pain doctor if:

• Your pain lasts more than two weeks

• You feel numbness or tingling in your arms, legs, or back

• Your pain worsens with movement or sitting

• You're experiencing weakness or loss of bladder/bowel control

• Over-the-counter pain medications no longer work

How Back Pain Is Diagnosed

At Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers, our evaluation starts with a comprehensive consultation. During your visit, your pain doctor will:

• Review your medical history

• Conduct a physical exam

• Ask about your lifestyle and work habits

• Order imaging tests (X-rays, MRI, CT scans) if needed

This allows us to pinpoint the root cause of your back pain—not just treat the symptoms. We want to identify the pain generator.

Treatment Options Offered at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers

We pride ourselves on offering a wide range of non-surgical and minimally invasive treatments that deliver long-term relief. Here’s a breakdown of what our back pain doctors may recommend:

1. Epidural Steroid Injections

These injections reduce inflammation around spinal nerves, especially helpful for herniated discs and sciatica.

2. Facet Joint Injections

These target small joints along the spine that may be arthritic or inflamed. They provide both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits.

3. Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)

RFA uses thermal energy to disable nerves that send pain signals. It's a great option for chronic back pain caused by arthritis or nerve irritation.

4. Nerve Blocks

These injections "block" pain signals from specific nerves. They're often used for both diagnostic clarity and temporary relief.

5. Ketamine Infusions

For patients with complex nerve-related pain, ketamine therapy can offer rapid and effective relief when other methods have failed.

6. Trigger Point Injections

Helpful for muscle-based pain and myofascial pain syndrome, these injections relieve deep muscle knots and spasms.

7. Medication Management

Our physicians provide careful, personalized medication plans, including non-opioid and opioid options when necessary, always following best practices and patient safety guidelines.

8. Regenerative Medicine (PRP & Stem Cell Therapy)

Advanced therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) stimulate healing in damaged tissues and joints. These can be especially useful for disc injuries and degenerative conditions. The medicine is not as evidenced based as alternatives that are more mainstream, but we are always hopeful.

Personalized Pain Management Plans

No two patients are alike, and no one-size-fits-all solution exists for back pain. That’s why each patient at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers receives a customized treatment plan based on:

• Pain type and severity

• Medical history and age

• Activity level and lifestyle goals

• Treatment preferences (surgical vs. non-surgical)

Our ultimate goal is to maximize relief, restore mobility, and improve quality of life for every SINGLE patient.

Who We Serve

We proudly treat patients from across Oklahoma City, Norman, Yukon, and surrounding areas. Whether you were injured in an auto accident, suffer from a chronic spine condition, or are experiencing new symptoms, we’re here to help you recover safely and quickly. All patients are welcome and we do not require a referral.

Patient Success Stories

“I struggled with chronic lower back pain for years and thought surgery was my only option. The pain doctors at Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers used injections and physical therapy to get me back to work pain-free.”
— Kevin S., Norman, OK

“After a car accident left me with herniated discs, I was miserable. The specialists in Yukon helped me get my life back without surgery.”
— Angela R., Yukon, OK

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take to see improvement?
A: Many patients feel relief within days of beginning treatment. Chronic cases may require ongoing care, but our team tracks progress at every step.

Q: Do I need a referral to see a pain doctor?
A: Not always. Call us and we’ll let you know based on your insurance plan.

Q: Are your pain doctors board-certified?
A: Yes. All of our back pain doctors are board-certified in pain medicine and anesthesiology.

Q: What insurance do you accept?
A: We accept most major insurances and will verify your benefits before treatment.

Q: Can I be treated without surgery?
A: Absolutely. The vast majority of our patients improve with non-surgical treatments.

Take the First Step Toward Relief

Back pain may be common, but it’s not something you have to live with. The sooner you address your symptoms, the more likely you are to prevent long-term damage and find lasting relief.

At Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers, our team of dedicated pain management doctors is ready to help you:

✅ Understand the root cause of your pain
✅ Receive expert, compassionate care
✅ Avoid unnecessary surgeries or medications
✅ Return to the life you enjoy

Contact Our Pain Management Clinics in OKC, Norman & Yukon

📍 Oklahoma City Clinic
📍 Norman Clinic
📍 Yukon Clinic

📅 Same-week appointments available most of the time
🩺 Accepting new patients
📋 Most major insurances accepted