Managing pain with osteoarthritis can be a challenge. For some osteoarthritis patients, low-dose radiation therapy (LD-RT) may be used for pain management as an alternative treatment after other methods have not worked.
When given at a lower dosage, radiation therapy has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat a variety of painful musculoskeletal conditions. LD-RT can be used to manage pain in the hands, fingers, knees, hips, ankles, shoulders, and spine.
How is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy Given?
LD-RT is administered by a radiation machine in six to eight treatment sessions given either every other day or twice a week over the course of two to three weeks. Each treatment takes less than 10 minutes, and multiple joints can be treated in the same session.
Does Low-Dose Radiation Therapy Have Side Effects?
LD-RT is painless, and a long-term study of patients receiving the treatment found no acute or late side effects.
How Much Pain Relief Can Patients Expect? How Long Does Pain Relief Last?
Studies show a pain improvement rate of over 70 percent after the initial set of treatments, and most patients reported lasting pain relief two years after beginning LD-RT.
LD-RT is available at select OHC locations. For more information about LD-RT for osteoarthritis, call 888-649-4800 or request an appointment.
