Low-Dose Radiation Therapy for Osteoarthritis Joint Pain

Non-Invasive Relief for Osteoarthritis Pain

The radiation oncology team at Lahey Clinic offers low-dose radiation therapy as a treatment option for osteoarthritis joint pain. Eligible patients who elect to undergo this procedure may see improvements in their symptoms with minimal side effects.

What Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy?

Low-dose radiation therapy is a type of osteoarthritis treatment that uses X-rays to target the affected joints, helping to reduce the immune response that causes pain and stiffness. It is typically pain-free with minimal side effects, making it an effective option for many patients.

Patients undergoing low-dose radiation therapy can expect six non-invasive outpatient treatments over 2-3 weeks. It is covered by most insurance plans, but you should contact your provider to be sure.

Eligibility Requirements

Low-dose radiation therapy is not recommended for every patient. However, you may benefit from this form of treatment if the following apply to you:

• Adults over age 40 with diagnosed osteoarthritis
• Symptoms not improved with medications, physical therapy or injections
• Not appropriate for joint replacement surgery
• Patients looking for a non-invasive treatment option

Common Treatment Areas

Osteoarthritis specialists use low-dose radiation therapy to treat pain in a variety of joints. Common target areas include:

• Hands and wrists
• Shoulders and spine
• Knees and hips
• Feet and ankles

What to Expect During Treatment

Those considering low-dose radiation therapy for osteoarthritis pain will typically meet with a radiation oncologist for an initial evaluation. If it is determined that you may benefit from this procedure, you will move forward with a mapping CT scan followed by the standard schedule of six treatments over 2-3 weeks. Outpatient treatments are brief and usually involve no anesthesia or recovery time.

Most patients tolerate radiation therapy well, though side effects are possible. Potential, low-risk side effects include:

• Temporary skin redness or irritation
• Mild fatigue
• Extremely rare risk of long-term radiation effects

You will check in with your care team regularly during treatment to monitor your progress, manage side effects and answer any questions you may have. Some patients notice improvement in their symptoms shortly after beginning treatment; others don’t see positive changes until several weeks or more. Your specific results will depend on your individual health profile.