PUEBLO, CO (Nov. 3, 2025) – CommonSpirit St. Mary-Corwin Hospital recently announced the launch of a groundbreaking new therapy for individuals experiencing chronic pain from osteoarthritis. This innovative treatment utilizes low-dose radiation, traditionally associated with cancer care, to effectively ease pain and improve quality of life without the need for invasive surgery. The procedure boasts minimal risks and offers a promising new avenue for relief.
Osteoarthritis, a degenerative joint disease, affects millions of Americans, often leading to debilitating pain and reduced mobility. While various treatments exist, many involve corticosteroids, pain medications, or ultimately, surgical intervention. SMC's new low-dose radiation therapy offers a non-surgical alternative, providing targeted relief for inflamed joints.
"At St. Mary-Corwin, we are continually seeking innovative solutions to improve the lives of our patients," said Dr. Mohit Agarwal, Radiation Oncologist at St. Mary-Corwin Hospital. "This low-dose radiation therapy represents a significant step forward in our fight against osteoarthritis pain. It's a testament to our commitment to exploring cutting-edge treatments that offer effective relief with minimal impact on our patients' daily lives."
One of the first patients to benefit from this new therapy is Kelly Clodfelter, a former railroad worker and local gunsmith whose hands bore the brunt of a lifetime of demanding physical labor, including numerous broken bones from his former football days. The severe osteoarthritis in his hands had progressed to the point where he was forced to retire, unable to perform basic tasks.
"It was a long process," Clodfelter recounts, describing his years of battling increasing pain. "I couldn't use my hands anymore, and it was devastating to have to give up the work I loved."
After receiving six targeted doses of the low-dose radiation therapy at SMC, Clodfelter experienced a remarkable turnaround. He is now able to return to his beloved craft and live almost entirely pain-free.
"It's amazing," he said. "I've talked to a lot of friends with similar conditions, and I'm pushing this, but I also tell them to proceed with caution. For me, there were absolutely no side effects."
Clodfelter's advice to others considering the therapy is simple and profound: "You have to trust your doctor and have faith in God." His personal journey underscores the profound impact this therapy can have on restoring independence and quality of life.
The low-dose radiation therapy works by targeting inflammatory cells within the affected joint, reducing pain and inflammation. The dosage is significantly lower than that used in cancer treatments, resulting in a favorable safety profile and minimal to no side effects for patients like Kelly.
Patients interested in learning more about this innovative treatment for osteoarthritis are encouraged to contact St. Mary-Corwin Hospital at 719-557-5525 or visit www.mountain.commonspirit.org.
Inspired by faith. Driven by innovation. Powered by humankindness. CommonSpirit Health is building a healthier future for all through its integrated health services. As one of the nation’s largest nonprofit Catholic healthcare organizations, CommonSpirit Health delivers more than 20 million patient encounters annually through more than 2,300 clinics, care sites and 137 hospital-based locations, in addition to its home-based services and virtual care offerings. CommonSpirit has more than 155,000 employees, 45,000 nurses and 25,000 physicians and advanced practice providers across 24 states and contributes more than $4 billion annually in charity care, community benefits and unreimbursed government programs. Together with our patients, physicians, partners, and communities, we are creating a more just, equitable, and innovative healthcare delivery system. Learn more at commonspirit.org.
