Facet (Spine Arthritis) Treatment in Castle Rock

Dr. Carrera and his team are dedicated to helping patients find relief from facet arthritis. Same-week appointments are often available for those in Castle Rock, Castle Rock, Lone Tree, Highlands Ranch, Parker, Denver, and surrounding areas. Call the office at 720-455-3775 to schedule your consultation. 

Don’t let facet arthritis limit your life—take the first step toward relief and recovery. 

  • Facet arthritis refers to inflammation and degeneration of the facet joints, which are small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae in the spine. Facet arthritis often occurs due to age-related wear and tear or repetitive stress on the spine. This condition can lead to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Another common cause of facet pain is whiplash from car accidents.  

  • You should seek immediate medical attention if facet arthritis is associated with: 

    • Severe or sudden onset of back pain 

    • Loss of bowel or bladder control 

    • Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the legs 

    • Unexplained weight loss 

    • Fever or chills accompanying back pain 

  • Dr. Carrera and his team begin with a thorough medical history and physical examination, focusing on the location of the pain, exacerbation by bending or twisting, and limitation in the range of movement. 

    If symptoms persist or worsen, advanced imaging, such as an MRI or CT scan, may be recommended to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of joint damage. Diagnostic facet joint injections may also be utilized to identify the source of pain.

  • Dr. Carrera offers a variety of evidence-based treatments to alleviate pain and improve function: 

    • Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. 

    • Physical Therapy: Focuses on strengthening surrounding muscles, improving posture, and increasing spinal flexibility to reduce joint stress. 

    • Facet Joint Injections: Corticosteroid injections administered under X-ray guidance to reduce inflammation and pain. These procedures are quick, safe, and minimally uncomfortable. 

    • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA): A simple procedure that uses heat at the tip of needles to disrupt nerve signals transmitting pain from the facet joints. It can provide long-lasting relief ranging from 6 to 24 months.