Find Relief from Osteoarthritis with Low-Dose Radiation Therapy

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An Option for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

Osteoarthritis can make everyday activities painful and limit your ability to enjoy the things you love. If medications or joint injections are no longer providing enough relief, low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) may be another treatment option for you.

MercyOne offers LDRT treatment at several locations. Ready to talk to an expert about LDRT? Request a consultation using the form below.

How LDRT Works

Low-dose radiation therapy targets inflammatory cells in the affected joint. By reducing inflammation, it can help relieve pain and improve mobility.

While this treatment does not repair damage to the joint, it may help you manage your symptoms and improve your comfort and quality of life.

Is LDRT right for you?

Low-dose radiation therapy may be an option if you:

Have tried anti-inflammatory medications or joint injections with limited relief
Aren’t ready for surgery or can’t have surgery because of other health conditions
Are looking for a noninvasive treatment option for osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis or bursitis

Benefits of LDRT for Osteoarthritis

Effective pain relief: Research has shown that about 70% of patients experience significant pain reduction, improved joint function or both.

Well-tolerated: The radiation dose about one-twentieth of what is used in cancer treatments, making it a well-tolerated option for most patients with minimal side effects.

Short treatment schedule: Treatment involves six sessions over two weeks, with each visit lasting about 30 minutes.

Well-established: The use of low-dose radiation for osteoarthritis started more than 125 years ago and remains a common treatment option, especially in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LDRT a replacement for joint replacement surgery?

No. LDRT is not a replacement for surgery. However, it may help relieve pain and improve function, allowing some patients to delay surgery or manage symptoms when surgery is not recommended.

Can I still have surgery in the future if I receive LDRT?

Yes. Receiving LDRT does not prevent you from having joint replacement surgery or other treatments in the future.

What conditions can be treated with LDRT?

In addition to osteoarthritis, LDRT may be used to treat certain inflammatory conditions, including plantar fasciitis, tendonitis and bursitis.

What can I expect during treatment?

Treatment is painless and does not require anesthesia. Most patients receive six treatments over two weeks. Each appointment typically lasts about 30 minutes.

When will I notice pain relief?

Some patients notice improvement within a few weeks, while others experience gradual relief over several months. Relief can vary from person to person.

Are there any side effects?

Most patients tolerate LDRT very well. Side effects are uncommon and usually mild. Some patients may experience temporary skin redness or fatigue.

Is the radiation dose safe?

Yes. The dose used for osteoarthritis treatment is much lower than the dose used to treat cancer, helping minimize the risk of side effects while still providing therapeutic benefits.

Will my insurance cover LDRT?

Coverage varies by insurance plan. Our team can help review your benefits and discuss any potential out-of-pocket costs before treatment begins.

Why is this treatment offered at a cancer center?

LDRT is administered by radiation oncology experts who are trained to safely deliver radiation treatments. Specialized equipment is located in MercyOne cancer centers and radiation oncology locations. The treatment uses a much lower dose of radiation than cancer treatment and is focused on reducing inflammation and relieving pain, not treating cancer.

Take the Next Step Toward Pain Relief

If osteoarthritis pain is affecting your quality of life, low-dose radiation therapy may help. Talk with your provider to learn whether this treatment is right for you.