Low-Dose Radiation Therapy
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and a leading cause of chronic joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility in adults. This degenerative joint disease develops when the cartilage that cushions the ends of bones gradually breaks down, causing bones to rub against one another. Over time, this wear-and-tear process can lead to inflammation, swelling, decreased range of motion, and persistent discomfort that interferes with daily activities and quality of life.
Osteoarthritis most commonly affects weight-bearing and frequently used joints such as the knees, hips, hands, shoulders, and spine. While the condition can occur at any age, it is more prevalent in adults over 40 and becomes increasingly common as people age. Factors such as prior joint injury, repetitive stress, genetics, obesity, and certain occupations can also increase the risk of developing osteoarthritis.
Symptoms of osteoarthritis usually start slowly and get worse over time. Common symptoms include:
- Pain during or after movement
- Stiffness, especially after resting
- Swelling around the joint
- Trouble bending or straightening the joint
- A grinding or popping feeling in the joint
Over time, osteoarthritis can make it harder to walk, climb stairs, or do everyday activities. Health organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) note that osteoarthritis is a major cause of pain and disability in adults.
For many patients, first-line treatments such as physical therapy, lifestyle modifications, oral medications, or joint injections help manage symptoms. However, some individuals continue to experience chronic pain despite these approaches or may not be ideal candidates for surgical intervention. For these patients, Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) offers a non-invasive treatment option designed to reduce inflammation and alleviate osteoarthritis-related pain.
What is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy?
Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) is a non-invasive treatment option that uses carefully controlled, very low doses of radiation to reduce inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis. Unlike radiation therapy used for cancer treatment, LDRT delivers significantly lower doses that are intended to target inflammatory processes within the joint rather than destroy tissue.
LDRT has been used international for decades as a treatment for benign inflammatory conditions. In recent years, it has gained renewed attention as an option for patients with chronic osteoarthritis pain who have not achieved sufficient relief through standard therapies.
How does LDRT work?
LDRT works by helping to lower the inflammation in the joint. Inflammation is one of the main reasons osteoarthritis causes pain. The low dose of radiation affects cells that cause swelling and irritation, which may help reduce pain over time.
Treatment is done using a machine that sends radiation to the painful joint from outside the body. Each visit is short and painless. Most patients receive several treatments over one to three weeks.
Some benefits of LDRT that patients may experience may include:
- Less joint pain
- Less swelling and stiffness
- Better movement and comfort
- No surgery or anesthesia needed
- Little to no downtime required to get treatment
Who May Benefit from LDRT?
Low‑Dose Radiation Therapy may be appropriate for adults with chronic osteoarthritis pain that has not responded adequately to conventional treatments such as medications, physical therapy, or injections. It may also be considered for individuals who wish to delay surgery or who are not ideal candidates for surgical intervention due to other health considerations.
Candidacy is determined through a consultation with a radiation oncology specialist, who evaluates the affected joint, medical history, and overall health to determine whether LDRT is a suitable option.
What to Expect During Treatment?
The LDRT process begins with a comprehensive consultation and treatment planning visit. Typically delivered over a short series of treatments—often six sessions over one to two weeks—LDRT is administered using precision imaging and planning to focus on the joint in question and spare surrounding healthy tissue. In European practices and emerging U.S. programs, response rates of 60-90% pain reduction have been reported, with minimal side effects. Each treatment session typically lasts only a few minutes, and patients can return to normal activities immediately afterward.
Symptom improvement may occur gradually over several weeks following treatment. Follow‑up visits help monitor progress and determine whether additional therapy is needed.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more or to schedule you an appointment with a specialist, call 814.534.1245.
