Move More. Hurt Less.
Low Dose Radiation Therapy Provides Effective Treatment for Arthritis
& Other Inflammatory Conditions
What is Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT)?
Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) is the delivery of radiation therapy in much lower doses than used for cancer treatments to treat painful inflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, and plantar fasciitis. LDRT is administered in six small doses, usually every other day over the course of almost two weeks at our radiation treatment center in Tavares. Treatments are given using the same high-precision Varian TrueBeam® radiotherapy system used in treatment of our cancer patients.
Why LDRT for Osteoarthritis?
LDRT has proven highly effective in reducing joint and tendon pain and inflammation. Widely used for decades in Europe, its efficacy and ease have recently become re-appreciated in the United States. LDRT offers a safe, non-invasive option for patients struggling with chronic pain from osteoarthritis and inflammatory soft tissue injuries such as tendonitis, bursitis, and plantar fasciitis. LDRT reduces inflammation and pain at the cellular level without the need for surgery or long-term medication. Clinical studies have demonstrated significant pain relief often for 12 to 18 months, making it an appealing option for those seeking improved mobility and quality of life with minimal treatment-related side effects. LDRT often helps reduce patients’ need for NSAID pain relievers. It can even defer the need for joint replacement in some cases.
The treatment is precise, targeting only the affected portions of the body. LDRT can be used to treat most affected joints, including hips, shoulders, knees, elbow, ankles, feet, and hands.
WHAT WE TREAT
Plantar Fasciitis | Tennis Elbow | Tendonitis | Osteoarthritis | Bursitis
HIPS
HANDS
KNEES
FEET & ANKLES
SHOULDERS
ELBOWS
Message Us
Contact us to see if low-dose radiation therapy is an appropriate treatment for your osteoarthritis, tendonitis or other inflammatory condition. For patients traveling from extended distances, special arrangements can be made to accommodate travel schedules as necessary. Please do not include any medical information in this message.
Frequently Asked Questions
What inflammatory conditions does LDRT treat?
Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) has been shown to be an effective treatment for a variety of inflammation conditions, such as plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, tendonitis, osteoarthritis, and bursitis.
Is LDRT effective for Osteoarthritis?
Yes, Low Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis, particularly in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips. Most patients experience noticeable improvement in mobility and a significant decrease in discomfort, with pain relief often lasting a year or more after treatment, after which the treatment usually can be repeated. While it is not a cure, LDRT offers a non-invasive option with minimal side effects for those seeking long-lasting relief.
Who is a candidate for LDRT?
LDRT is typically a good option for individuals suffering from localized joint pain that affects their quality of life who have not found sufficient relief from conventional treatments like medications, physical therapy, or injections. It’s especially helpful for patients who want to avoid or delay joint surgery, or those who may not be good surgical candidates due to age or other health conditions. A consultation with our radiation oncologist can help determine if LDRT is right for you.
What is the treatment process like?
First, we will schedule a consultation with Dr. Brabham to assess your symptoms. If you are a candidate, we will then image the affected joint and create a personalized treatment plan. After that, you will likely undergo six short treatment sessions, which are scheduled every other day over the course of about two weeks. Each session lasts only a few minutes and is performed using the same precise technology used in cancer radiation therapy, but at much lower doses. There is no need for anesthesia, hospitalization, or recovery time, and patients can return to their normal activities immediately after each visit.
How many treatments can I expect?
Patients can expect six treatment sessions to be conducted over the course of two weeks.
Will my OA symptoms return after treatment?
LDRT is effective, but typically not permanent. Patients may experience a return of symptoms 12-18 months following initial treatment. Often patients will be able to receive an additional LDRT course if symptoms return.
Why should I choose Florida Oncology Tavares for my LDRT?
Florida Oncology Tavares has treated thousands of patients safely and effectively. In addition to our technical expertise, we are a group of dedicated, compassionate medical professionals. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide precise, personalized, high-quality radiation treatments to each of our patients.
Does LDRT hurt?
No. LDRT is a touchless and painless procedure.
What are the side effects of LDRT?
Will this be covered by my insurance?
Your treatment may be covered by your insurance. Contact our office to verify.
How long does the pain relief last?
Typically, LDRT offers relief for 12 – 18 months post treatment.
REFERENCES
For research and additional reading on LDRT and osteoarthritis, we recommend the following sources:
https://news.uthscsa.edu/non-invasive-treatment-provides-relief-for-osteoarthritis-pain/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6127969/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0360301622003571
https://www.uclahealth.org/cancer/cancer-services/radonc/treatments/ldrt-osteoarthritis