Arthritis Care in Wheat Ridge, Colorado
The goal of arthritis care is not just less pain — it is keeping you hiking, kneeling, gripping, and living. Ridgeview brings primary care and sports medicine to the same joint.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is inflammation or degeneration of one or more joints, most commonly osteoarthritis from wear over time. The goal of care is not just less pain — it is keeping you doing the things you want to do.
What causes arthritis?
Age, prior injuries, repetitive load, weight, and genetics all contribute. Inflammatory forms like rheumatoid arthritis have autoimmune causes and follow a different treatment path — distinguishing them matters.
When should I see a doctor for arthritis?
It may be worth scheduling an evaluation if the following sounds familiar: if joint pain is changing what you are willing to do — skipping hikes, avoiding stairs, giving up activities — or if you have swelling, warmth, or stiffness lasting more than a few weeks.
How Ridgeview evaluates arthritis in Wheat Ridge
Arthritis evaluation at Ridgeview looks at the joint and at how you move.
- Examination of the affected joints and how they move under load
- Distinguishing osteoarthritis from inflammatory causes
- In-office ultrasound evaluation where useful
- Laboratory testing when inflammatory arthritis is suspected
- Imaging referral when it will change the plan
Common signs + symptoms
Joint pain that worsens with activity or at day’s end
Morning stiffness
Swelling or tenderness around a joint
Grinding or reduced range of motion
Difficulty with stairs, gripping, or kneeling
Related conditions
Treatment depends on what is actually causing the problem.
Depending on your diagnosis, treatment may include:
Activity modification that keeps you moving rather than resting
Strengthening guidance for the muscles that support the joint
Anti-inflammatory strategies and medication when appropriate
Injection treatments for flares limiting your function
Weight management support when it would unload the joint
Referral to rheumatology or orthopedics when indicated
Arthritis: Common Questions
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and inflammatory arthritis?
Osteoarthritis is wear of the joint cartilage and usually affects the knees, hips, hands and spine. Inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, is driven by the immune system and often causes morning stiffness, swelling and warmth in several joints.
Can arthritis pain be treated without surgery?
Many patients improve with a combination of strengthening, weight management, activity changes, medication and, when appropriate, joint injections. Surgery is usually considered when these options no longer control pain or function.
Are injections an option for arthritic joints?
For selected patients, corticosteroid, hyaluronic acid or PRP injections may help. Dr. Kroner discusses the evidence, how long relief usually lasts and the cost of each option after an evaluation.
Related reading: Non-surgical treatment options for joint pain
Medically reviewed by Christopher Kroner, MD, MPH, primary care and sports medicine physician. Last reviewed October 30, 2026.
Why Choose Ridgeview DPC for Arthritis Care?
Arthritis pain can come from wear-and-tear osteoarthritis, an autoimmune condition like rheumatoid arthritis, or something else entirely — and getting the right diagnosis matters for how it’s treated long-term. At Ridgeview Direct Care, Dr. Kroner takes a thorough look at your joint pain, mobility, and history to build a plan that fits your life, whether that means lifestyle changes, medication, physical therapy referrals, or further imaging. As a member, you get same-day and next-day appointments, longer visits without a rushed 15-minute limit, and direct access to your doctor by text or call when a flare-up hits. No insurance hassles, no surprise bills — just consistent, personal care from someone who knows your case.
Why Ridgeview
A doctor who knows you.
With both primary care and sports medicine training, Dr. Kroner can evaluate the joint itself, distinguish arthritis types, and build a plan focused on function — including in-office ultrasound evaluation and injections when appropriate.
Get clarity on what’s causing it.
The first step is understanding what is happening and what your options are. Schedule an evaluation with Dr. Kroner at Ridgeview Direct Care.
Visit Ridgeview Direct Care
Ridgeview Direct Care
Address: 4045 Wadsworth Blvd Ste 300, Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Phone: 720-807-9961