Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) for Pain Relief

What is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT)?

LDRT is a non-invasive treatment that uses low doses of targeted radiation (less than 1 Gray per session) to reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain.

Unlike high-dose radiation used for cancer, LDRT targets inflammation, offering pain relief with minimal side effects.

Low-dose radiation therapy may help treat several common benign conditions, including:

  • Osteoarthritis (OA)
    • Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, affecting more than 32 million people in the United States. It can cause joint pain, stiffness and reduced mobility, often in the hands, knees, hips or shoulders. These symptoms can make everyday activities more difficult and impact your quality of life.
  • Plantar Fasciitis
    • This common condition causes pain and inflammation in the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue along the bottom of your foot. It connects your heel to your toes and helps support your arch. Symptoms often include sharp heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning or after resting.
  • Dupuytren’s Disease
    • Also called Dupuytren’s contracture, this condition occurs when tissue under the skin of the palm thickens and tightens over time. This can cause one or more fingers to bend inward. It most often affects the ring and little fingers and may make it harder to grip objects or use your hand comfortably.
Portrait of a mature man with back pain

Learn More

Talk to your oncologist or contact the Cancer Care team at (859) 301-2238, option 1.

Benefits of LDRT

  • Pain relief: Studies show many patients (about 60% to 90%) experience significant pain reduction, often lasting months or even years.
  • Improved mobility: Many people notice better joint movement and increased activity levels.
  • Minimal side effects: LDRT is well tolerated, with rare side effects such as mild skin redness (seen in fewer than 1% of patients).
  • Non-invasive care: No surgery or injections are needed, making this a comfortable option for pain management.

How Does LDRT Work?

LDRT uses low doses of radiation to reduce inflammation in the affected joint. It works by influencing the body’s immune response, decreasing inflammation-causing signals and supporting healing.

Treatment typically includes 5 to 10 sessions over 2 to 3 weeks. Each session is quick, painless and done on an outpatient basis so you can return home the same day.

Is LDRT Safe?

LDRT is considered safe with a low risk of side effects. The risk of developing secondary cancer is low, especially for patients over age 40, and no cases have been reported when treating osteoarthritis.

To further reduce risk:

  • Treatment is usually recommended for adults over 40.
  • Careful planning helps protect healthy tissue and limit radiation exposure.

Who Can Benefit From LDRT?

LDRT may be a good option if you:

  • Are age 40 or older.
  • Have ongoing osteoarthritis pain despite medications, physical therapy or injections.
  • Would like to delay or avoid surgery.
  • Do not have certain conditions, such as pregnancy or active connective tissue disorders.

What to Expect

  • Consultation: A radiation oncologist will review your symptoms, medical history and treatment goals to determine if LDRT is right for you.
  • Treatment planning: Imaging, such as a CT scan, may be used to precisely target the affected area.
  • Treatment sessions: A radiation therapist will help position you comfortably and use specialized equipment to ensure accurate treatment each time. Sessions take only a few minutes.
  • Follow-up care: You may begin to notice pain relief during treatment or in the weeks after. If needed, a second course of treatment may be considered.

Clinical Evidence

Recent studies show that 65% to 94% of patients report pain relief within 6 to 24 months after treatment. Joints such as the hands, knees and hips often respond well, with some patients experiencing near-complete relief.

Is LDRT Right for You?

If you are living with persistent joint pain, LDRT may offer a new path forward. Talk with your doctor or a radiation oncologist to learn if this treatment is right for you.

LDRT is often covered by most insurance plans, and your care team can help you understand your options.

Take the Next Step

Talk with your physician today to learn more about low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) and how it may be right for you.

Our Commitment to You

The St. Elizabeth Healthcare Radiation Oncology program is accredited by the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO) APEx-Accreditation Program for Excellence®. This accreditation demonstrates our commitment to your well-being and providing you with safe, high-quality care. St. Elizabeth Healthcare is the first healthcare system in Kentucky to receive this recognition.

Call Your Oncologist

Talk to your oncologist or contact the Cancer Care team at (859) 301-2238, option 1.

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