Osteoarthritis occurs when a joint wears down, resulting in pain and less movement. For many patients, low-dose radiation therapy may be a great option for people who want to avoid surgery, cannot safely undergo surgery, or whose osteoarthritis is not severe enough yet for surgery.
What is low-dose radiation therapy?
Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is a painless x-ray treatment that targets the inflammatory cells of the affected joint. LDRT decreases pain signals within the joint, resulting less pain and improved joint function. Research has shown that about 70% of osteoarthritis patients experience some level of pain reduction and/or improved joint function with LDRT.
Benefits of low-dose radiation therapy for osteoarthritis treatment
Low-dose radiation therapy is a promising treatment for osteoarthritis. It offers several advantages over traditional approaches, including:
- Minimal side effects: Side effects from LDRT are rare. Patients may experience slight skin irritation or temporary mild fatigue. There are no documented long-term side effects.
- Non-invasive alternative: This therapy is a painless and non-invasive procedure. There is no need for hospitalization or anesthesia with LDRT.
- Improved mobility and functionality: Reduced pain allows for increased movement. After LDRT, patients have been able to increase their physical activities.
- Pain relief: The therapy decreases the production of inflammatory cytokines – small proteins that tell cells to communicate with each other – which are responsible for joint inflammation and discomfort.
Who is a good candidate for low-dose radiation therapy?
Low-dose radiation therapy is not suitable for everyone. However, it can be highly beneficial for individuals over the age of 40 who meet specific criteria.
LDRT is most effective for patients who have not responded well to conservative treatments such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroid injections, and/or physical therapy. It is particularly beneficial for individuals experiencing chronic pain and inflammation despite these interventions.
What to expect during low-dose radiation therapy for osteoarthritis
The low-dose radiation therapy process is designed to be simple and stress-free for patients. A typical course of treatment involves:
1. Initial consultation and planning The process begins with an initial consultation. There, a radiation provider will assess the severity of the patient’s osteoarthritis and determine whether low-dose radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment option. Imaging tests, such as x-rays, may be performed to evaluate the osteoarthritis. Once approval for treatment is received, the patient will have a radiation treatment planning session. The health care team will work with the patient to schedule six treatments over two weeks.
2. During the treatment sessions Each outpatient session lasts approximately 15 to 30 minutes. The patient will be
positioned comfortably while the joint is targeted with the focused, painless radiation therapy.
3. Post-treatment care and monitoring During and after treatment, patients maintain normal daily activities without downtime. Some individuals may experience gradual pain relief within a few weeks, while others may notice improvements over several months. A follow-up appointment with the radiation provider will help track progress and determine if additional radiation treatments are desired to further improve symptoms.
Living Healthy with Loyola Medicine
Living Healthy with Loyola Medicine
