At The Denver Arthritis Clinic we have two comfortable infusion rooms with recliners and offer the newest, most promising treatments and therapies for arthritis, as well as on-site infusion therapy for patients with autoimmune disorders and osteoporosis. Our highly-trained Certified Infusion Nurse Specialists administer proven intravenous medications, including: Remicade, Orencia and Rituxan – revolutionary new treatments for rheumatoid arthritis Aredia, ReClast, Boniva - for severe osteoporosis Solumedrol - IV steroid for lupus and vasculitis These infusions are covered by most insurance companies including Medicare.

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Medications for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis can reduce pain and increase functionality and, for many, may be a possible alternative to surgery. These medications include: Hyalgan Synvisc Orthovisc

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The Denver Arthritis Clinic offers a vast array of outpatient diagnostic services under one roof.  At The DAC, we combine convenience for the highest level of care. Our technology includes on-site x-ray services to provide disease progression and help identify appropriate therapies. We also utilize the latest technology for bone densitometry (DEXA scan) to identify patients’ risk of osteoporosis, and to track the effects of treatment on all stages of bone disease such as osteoporosis, and osteopenia.

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The Denver Arthritis Clinic houses a full lab in order to ensure that specialized tests, necessary for the diagnosis and treatment of patients with rheumatological disorders, are performed under the supervision of a physician who is board certified in Rheumatology. Tests are performed by a certified technologist who has experience in Rheumatology laboratory work. These technologists are part of the team that is dedicated to caring for patients that are seen in the DAC Clinic and understands that serum and joint fluid analyses are a crucial part of your individualized care.

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Why you may need a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test Physicians recommend BMD testing for many different types of patie nts, including patients taking steroid medication, patients with hyperthyroidism, patients who have had a fracture in which osteoporosis is suspected and postmenopausal women with risk factors for osteoporosis. Your doctor may schedule a BMD test to help confirm a diagnosis of osteoporosis before a fracture occurs, detect l ow bone mass before osteoporosis develops or monitor the effects of treatment on bone density over time. Additional risk factors that can contribute to thinning bones or osteoporosis include family history, Caucasian (white) or Asian descent, small or thin build, smoking, infrequent exercise, excessive use of alcoholic or caffeinated beverages, or a diet deficient in calcium and vitamin D. Be sure to discuss your risk factors with your doctor. However, osteoporosis can develop with no risk factors. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a difference in your life! Osteoporosis and associated fractures can rob you of your mobility and independence. Osteoporosis is a 'silent disease' that reduces the strength of your bones, causing them to become brittle and prone to fractures. Approximately half of all women over the age of 50 have osteoporosis and are at risk of an osteoporosis-related fracture. With the results of your test, you and your doctor can determine what lifestyle changes or treatment measures should be taken. If osteoporosis is diagnosed, treatments are available that can increase bone density and reduce the risk of fracture. Early diagnosis can make a difference in your life. How much radiation will I be exposed to during the test? Bone mineral density (BMD) tests use small amounts of radiation to determine the density of the spine, hip or total body. Your radiation exposure will be a fraction of what you would receive from a chest X-ray, and actually about the same as you would experience on a cross-country airline flight. A DXA test is considered the “gold standard” in measuring your bone health. The DXA test is a highly sensitive scan, and is more comprehensive than the peripheral machines (finger or heel) so results are more accurate. This makes the DXA scan the best way to tell if you have thinning bones. How is a bone density test performed? The DXA machine measures your bone density by performing a touch-free scan, similar to an x-ray, so it's painless. You will be asked to lie on a padded table while a movable arm passes over the area to be tested, for example, the arms, spine or hips. In a matter of minutes, depending on the number of sites to be scanned, our DXA machine will complete your bone density test. The test is non-invasive and does not require any medication or injections. Your results are compared with the average BMD of healthy adults of your age and sex. This information will help your doctor diagnose osteoporosis or assess your risk for developing osteoporosis in the future. Preparing for a DXA scan For your comfort during the exam wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing without zippers, buckles or metal buttons. Unless instructed otherwise, eat normally on the day of the exam, but avoid taking calcium supplements for at least 24 hours prior to your appointment. You should not have a barium study, radioisotope injection or oral or intravenous contrast material from a CT scan or MRI within seven days prior to your DXA exam.

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