The 37-year-old is looking forward to a full summer of training while dealing with numerous injuries with the Capitals.
ARLINGTON, V.A. -- Washington Capitals forward T.J. Oshie revealed that he underwent a minor procedure to address lingering back issues.
Oshie underwent the procedure on Friday. It was a double ablation, which is a radiofrequency operation that uses heat to destroy tissue. Soundwaves and radio waves are sent through a needle to heat part of the nerve, which prevents pain from being sent to the brain It is usually done to treat long-term pain.
"It didn't feel like soundwaves, it felt like knives," Oshie said. "I had [son Campbell] with me, he was playing trucks... I feel good and I'm super optimistic about my back and moving forward."
Oshie missed the final six games of the season with an upper-body injury. He finished the year with 19 goals and 16 assists for 35 points in 58 games this season. No. 77 did say last year that he hoped to be fully healthy for 2022-23, but things didn't go according to plan.
"I already feel light-years different than I did yesterday morning, so that's good news for me moving forward," Oshie said. "My training regimen is going to be a lot different this year, a lot more focused on core strength and conditioning for next season."
The 36-year-old said that he is feeling better and will have a full, normal summer of training. He can begin immediately, and the plan is to make the most of that time to get healthy and hopefully be in better shape by the time training camp starts in September.
Oshie did admit that the last few seasons have been difficult as he's navigated a number of ailments, but that he's looking forward to getting back to full strength and doesn't plan to change his game or approach.
"I'm going to play to 100 percent of my ability and 100 percent of my body until I'm not playing anymore," Oshie said, adding, "I'm super competitive."