Arthritis Treatment in Castle Rock
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. There are many types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis (wear-and-tear arthritis that develops with age) and inflammatory arthritis (conditions like rheumatoid arthritis or gout where the immune system or crystal deposits cause joint inflammation).
Osteoarthritis is by far the most common type seen in a pain management setting. It can affect any joint but most frequently impacts the knees, hips, shoulders, and spine. As cartilage wears down over time, the bones in the joint begin to rub against each other, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling.
Arthritis in the Knee
Knee arthritis is one of the most common reasons patients seek pain management care. Symptoms include pain with walking, stiffness after sitting, difficulty with stairs, and swelling around the knee. As arthritis progresses, the pain can become constant and limit daily activities.
Treatment options: Steroid injections provide fast anti-inflammatory relief. PRP injections may provide longer-lasting results and are supported by strong evidence for knee osteoarthritis. Genicular nerve radiofrequency ablation (RFA) targets the nerves supplying the knee to provide months of relief without affecting joint function - this is a good option for patients who are not candidates for or are trying to delay knee replacement. Physical therapy and weight management are important for all knee arthritis patients.
Arthritis in the Hip
Hip arthritis typically causes groin pain, stiffness when getting up from a chair, and difficulty with activities like putting on shoes or getting in and out of a car. It is important to distinguish hip joint arthritis (which causes groin-area pain) from trochanteric bursitis (which causes pain on the outside of the hip) and from SI joint dysfunction (which causes buttock pain). These three conditions are frequently confused, and the treatment is different for each one.
Treatment options: Steroid injections into the hip joint under fluoroscopy or ultrasound guidance can provide relief lasting weeks to months. PRP is also available as a steroid-free alternative. Physical therapy focused on hip flexibility and strengthening is important. If arthritis is severe and not responding to non-surgical treatments, Dr. Carrera's team can refer you to an orthopedic surgeon for evaluation.
Arthritis in the Shoulder
Shoulder arthritis can affect the main shoulder joint (glenohumeral joint) or the joint at the top of the shoulder (AC joint). Symptoms include pain with overhead reaching, difficulty sleeping on the affected side, grinding or clicking sensations, and progressive loss of range of motion. In severe cases, shoulder arthritis can develop into frozen shoulder (adhesive capsulitis).
Treatment options: Steroid injections into the glenohumeral joint or AC joint can reduce pain and improve mobility. PRP may be considered for rotator cuff tendinopathy or partial tears that accompany shoulder arthritis. Physical therapy is critical for maintaining range of motion and preventing frozen shoulder.
Arthritis in the Spine
Spinal arthritis most commonly affects the facet joints - the small joints along the back of the spine that allow bending and twisting. Facet arthritis (also called spondylosis) causes neck or back pain that is typically worse with extension (leaning back), twisting, and prolonged standing. It is one of the most common causes of chronic neck and back pain in adults over 40.
Treatment options: Facet joint injections can diagnose and treat facet-related pain with steroid medication. Medial branch blocks and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) provide longer-lasting relief - typically 6 to 18 months per treatment - by disrupting the nerves that carry pain signals from the facet joints. PRP injections into facet joints are available as a steroid-free alternative. Physical therapy focused on core stabilization and posture helps support the spine and reduce load on arthritic joints.
For a more detailed discussion of spinal arthritis, visit the facet arthritis page.
What Causes Arthritis?
Aging: Cartilage wears down naturally over time. Most people over 60 have some degree of arthritis visible on imaging.
Previous injury: Joint injuries from sports, accidents, or repetitive use can accelerate arthritis development.
Obesity: Excess body weight places increased mechanical stress on weight-bearing joints, especially knees and hips.
Genetics: Family history influences how quickly cartilage degenerates.
Inflammatory conditions: Autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and psoriatic arthritis cause joint inflammation independent of wear and tear.
When Should I See a Pain Specialist for Arthritis?
Consider scheduling an evaluation if your joint pain has not improved with over-the-counter medications (like Tylenol or ibuprofen) and rest, if arthritis is limiting your ability to walk, exercise, work, or sleep, if you have been told you need a joint replacement but want to explore non-surgical options first, or if you have tried physical therapy alone and are still in significant pain.
Dr. Carrera's team evaluates which specific structure is causing your pain and recommends targeted treatment. Many arthritis patients have multiple pain sources - for example, knee arthritis combined with hip bursitis, or back pain from both facet arthritis and a disc problem. The team identifies each contributing factor so treatment can be directed appropriately.
Schedule an Evaluation
If arthritis is limiting your ability to stay active, Dr. Carrera's team can evaluate your pain, identify which structures are involved, and recommend targeted treatment. Most new patients are seen within two weeks of referral.