For many people living with osteoarthritis, joint pain can affect nearly every aspect of daily life. Walking, climbing stairs, gardening, exercising and even routine household tasks can become increasingly difficult as symptoms progress.
While many patients find relief through medications, physical therapy, injections or lifestyle changes, others continue to experience persistent pain. For these individuals, low-dose radiation therapy (LD-RT) may offer another treatment option.
What Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy?
Most people associate radiation therapy with cancer treatment. However, when delivered at much lower doses, radiation therapy has anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce pain associated with certain musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis.
Low-dose radiation therapy has been used for decades in parts of Europe and is drawing increased interest in the United States as research continues to demonstrate its effectiveness for pain management.
“Living with osteoarthritis often means adapting your daily life around pain,” said Dr. Rachael Harmon, radiation oncologist. “When simple activities become difficult, it can take a real toll on a person’s independence and quality of life. Our goal is to help patients find meaningful relief so they can spend more time doing the things that matter most to them.”
How Does It Work?
Osteoarthritis occurs when the protective cartilage within a joint breaks down over time, often leading to inflammation, stiffness and pain.
Researchers believe low-dose radiation therapy helps reduce inflammatory activity within affected joints. By targeting inflammation, LD-RT may help decrease pain and improve function, allowing patients to return to activities they enjoy.
LD-RT may be used to treat osteoarthritis affecting the:
- Hands and fingers
- Knees
- Hips
- Ankles
- Shoulders
- Spine
Who May Benefit from Treatment?
Low-dose radiation therapy may be appropriate for patients who continue to experience osteoarthritis pain despite conservative treatments such as:
- Physical therapy
- Exercise programs
- Topical pain relievers
- Oral medications
- Joint injections
For some patients, LD-RT may provide an additional treatment option before surgery is considered.
Southern Cancer Center’s radiation oncology team can help determine whether low-dose radiation therapy is an appropriate option based on a patient’s symptoms, medical history and treatment goals.
What Can Patients Expect?
Low-dose radiation therapy is painless and noninvasive.
Treatment is delivered using a radiation machine during six to eight brief sessions over a two- to three-week period. Sessions are typically scheduled every other day or twice weekly, and each treatment generally takes less than 10 minutes. In many cases, multiple joints can be treated during the same visit.
Patients can continue their normal daily activities throughout the course of treatment.
Does It Provide Lasting Relief?
Research has shown encouraging results for patients treated with LD-RT. Studies have demonstrated pain improvement in more than 70% of patients following treatment, with many continuing to experience relief years later.
While some patients notice improvement within a matter of weeks, others experience more gradual benefits over several months as inflammation decreases.
In addition to its effectiveness, LD-RT is generally well tolerated, with studies reporting very low rates of side effects.
Insurance Coverage
Many insurance plans recognize low-dose radiation therapy as a treatment option for osteoarthritis. Coverage varies by plan, and our team can assist patients in verifying benefits and discussing any anticipated out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.
Learn More About Low-Dose Radiation Therapy
Southern Cancer Center is proud to offer advanced radiation therapy services close to home. If osteoarthritis pain is affecting your quality of life, low-dose radiation therapy may be an option worth exploring.
To learn more or schedule a consultation, contact Southern Cancer Center at 251.625.6896.
