What kind of pain conditions do you treat?

We treat a wide range of acute and chronic pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain, sciatica, arthritis, nerve pain and accident injuries or surgeries. Our goal is to help you get back to an active and pain-free lifestyle.

Do I need a referral to schedule an appointment?

In most cases, you do not need a referral to see us. We accept self-referrals and work with most insurance providers. If you are unsure, just give us a call and we will help you understand what is needed.

What is interventional pain management?

Interventional pain management uses targeted, invasive procedures such as injections, nerve blockages, and spine stimulation to treat the source of your pain, not just cover it up with medication.

Who is Dr. Blake Christensen?

Dr. Blake Christensen is an expert in pain management, certified by the board and founder of Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers. With extensive training and a personalized approach, he is known for helping patients find real, lasting relief.

Are your treatments surgical?

No. We specialize in non-surgical pain treatments. Most of our procedures are performed in-office and do not require hospital stays or long recovery times.

What are epidural steroid injections, and are they safe?

Epidural steroid injections help reduce inflammation around spinal nerves. They are safe, commonly used, and often bring relief from conditions like herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

How long will it take to see results?

It depends on the condition and treatment plan, but many patients experience relief within days or weeks. We will guide you through each step and adjust your care as needed.

Is pain management just about medication?

Not at all. While medication can be part of a plan, we focus on treating the root cause through injections, physical therapies, nerve treatments, and lifestyle guidance.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Please bring your ID, insurance card, a list of medications you are currently taking, and any recent imaging reports if available (X-rays, MRIs, etc.).

Where are you located, and what are your hours?

We have locations in Oklahoma City, Norman. Our clinics are open Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

Do you accept insurance?

Yes, we accept most major insurance plans. Our staff will help verify your coverage and explain any costs before your treatment.

What makes Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers different?

We treat each patient like family. With expert care led by Dr. Blake Christensen and a dedicated staff, we combine experience, compassion, and innovative treatments by the best team for the best health and quality of life.

How to Support and Strengthen Your Spinal Discs Naturally

Jul 29

Written By Dotline Ppc

We often think about muscles, bones, or nerves when we think about back pain. But there is one important part we frequently forget. Your spinal discs are the rubbery pads that sit between your vertebrae to help you move and keep your bones from rubbing together.

Sadly, these discs can wear out as we get older in a process called disc desiccation. You can help protect your discs by taking specific vitamins and changing some daily habits. Our Oklahoma City pain management doctor believes in assisting patients with chronic pain with natural tools to support their interventional care.

Why Spinal Discs Break Down

Spinal discs are made of a tough outer shell called the annulus fibrosus and a soft, gel-like center called the nucleus pulposus. They are about 80% water when we’re young and slowly dehydrate by the time we reach our 40s or 50s.

Dehydration: As discs dry out, they lose height and the ability to cushion movement.
Flexibility: The loss of fluid makes the spine stiffer and more prone to injury.
Maintenance: You cannot stop aging. But you can help your back by drinking water and eating nutrient-dense foods.

Be kind to your back. Understanding the biology of disc degeneration allows us to choose the right supplements to slow this process down. We can target the specific needs of your spine by focusing on hydration and structural repair.

Structural Support Supplements

Certain supplements can act as building blocks for your spine. They provide the raw materials your body needs to maintain the tough outer shell and soft inner core of your discs.

Collagen peptides: Collagen is like glue for your body because it holds your discs and joints together. Taking about 10 grams a day of Type I and Type II collagen can help rebuild cartilage.
Glucosamine sulfate: This helps build cartilage and keeps your spinal discs full of water so they stay soft. We recommend about 1,500 mg daily.
Chondroitin sulfate: Chondroitin helps your cartilage hold water. It works best when taken with glucosamine at a dose of 800 to 1,200 mg each day.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane): MSM provides sulfur. This is a critical nutrient for forming connective tissue in discs and joints.

People with early-stage back disc problems may feel better if they take these supplements, especially in cases of osteoarthritis (OA) alongside exercise or therapy. Providing your body with these essential nutrients creates a stronger foundation for your spine to withstand daily stress.

Managing Inflammation and Hydration

Inflammation and dehydration are ‌enemies of spinal health. Reducing swelling and retaining moisture are critical steps in natural spine care and maintenance.

Hyaluronic acid: This gel-like substance helps retain water inside discs to support flexibility and shock absorption. A daily dose of 100–200 mg may support disc hydration.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil, omega-3s have strong anti-inflammatory effects. According to UpToDate, omega-3s may reduce pain and stiffness in patients with degenerative spine conditions.
Curcumin (Turmeric): This natural anti-inflammatory works by reducing NF-KB. This is the molecule responsible for inflammatory signaling in the spine.
SAM-e: This supplement supports joint health and has been shown to help with pain relief in osteoarthritis.

Reducing inflammation around spinal discs can relieve pressure on nerves and promote healing. These natural options offer a way to manage pain without relying solely on medications.

Essential Vitamins for Bone Health

Your discs rely on the surrounding vertebrae for support. Keeping your bones and muscles healthy is essential for protecting the discs in between them.

Vitamin D3 and K2: Vitamin D helps regulate inflammation and calcium levels. Vitamin K2 directs calcium into bones and away from soft tissues like discs. Low vitamin D levels have been linked to more severe disc degeneration.
Magnesium: Magnesium helps with muscle relaxation and nerve function. Deficiency is common and may worsen inflammation and pain sensitivity.

Supplements alone will not reverse spinal disc problems, but they can slow the process and reduce your pain. A comprehensive approach that includes these vitamins ensures your entire musculoskeletal system is supported.

Take the Next Step for Your Spine

Supplements are most effective when paired with physical therapy or spine-safe strength training. Your spine deserves long-term care.

Contact Oklahoma Pain Treatment Centers today to discuss a holistic plan with us for your back pain. We are here to help you stay active, mobile, and pain free for years to come.

Dotline Ppc