[00:00:00] Introduction to Dr. Wayne Fleischhacker

Lawrence LeBrocq introduces Dr. Fleischhacker, a double board-certified anesthesiologist and pain management specialist with over 30 years of experience.

[00:02:37] What is Interventional Pain Management?

Dr. Fleischhacker explains his subspecialty, which involves diagnostic tests, invasive procedures, and minimally invasive surgeries to treat spinal pain.

[00:03:15] Epidurals: More Than Just an Injection

A look at how epidural steroid injections work outside the “dura” (spinal cord cover) to reduce the chemical inflammation causing sciatica.

[00:06:45] Facet Joints and Radio Frequency Ablation

Identifying axial neck and back pain. Dr. Fleischhacker describes “cauterizing” or burning the medial branch nerves to block pain signals for up to a year.

[00:12:45] The Care Path and Insurance Barriers

The reality of seeking treatment: meeting “conservative care” requirements and fighting through insurance denials and appeals.

[00:18:15] The Jelly Donut: Bulges vs. Herniations

A vivid breakdown of spinal anatomy, explaining how the “jelly” (nucleus) escaping the “dough” (annulus) causes severe chemical and physical nerve irritation.

[00:22:45] Spinal Cord Stimulation: The Final Step

For patients with “failed back syndrome,” Dr. Fleischhacker explains how pacemakers for the spine can block pain “lanes” to the brain.

[00:25:30] Trauma vs. Degeneration

Can a traumatic event worsen a preexisting condition? Dr. Fleischhacker discusses how asymptomatic discs are predisposed to injury following a collision.