“Low-Dose X-ray Treatment is Being Used for Arthritis,” says The Washington Post
Of course, as a resource focused on the usefulness of low-dose radiotherapy and on collecting and sharing LDRT providers around the country, this headline is not news to us. However, we were excited to see this article shared in The Washington Post. In an article entitled “Low-Dose X-ray Treatment is Being Used for Arthritis, Plantar Fasciitis and Other Benign Conditions,” The Washington Post highlights the efficacy of LDRT and busts the radiophobia that can be associated with it.
What the Article is About: LDRT for Treating Pain
As we well know, Low-Dose Radiotherapy can have several positive impacts, which can lead to reduced pain – particularly when it comes to osteoarthritis symptoms. The article highlights how radiation oncologist Sanjay Mehta, in pain due to Achilles tendinitis and having tried other treatments, tried six sessions of Low-Dose Radiotherapy. Having treated his own patients with LDRT for other inflammatory conditions, Dr. Mehta decided it was worth trying. After his six sessions, he was pain free.
“Unlike radiation therapy for cancer, LDRT, as its name suggests, uses low doses to suppress inflammatory cells. Mehta said six LDRT treatments expose the patient to about the same amount of radiation as in one cancer treatment or what someone might get from ‘a few’ CT scans.”
Low-Dose Radiotherapy specifically helps with conditions that cause inflammation – tendinitis, osteoarthritis and plantar fasciitis – being three highlighted in this article. Specifically, the low-dose X-rays target and suppress macrophages, the white blood cells tied to inflammation. By stopping the cause of the inflammation, low-dose radiotherapy can help reduce the pain and swelling that come from these conditions.
Is LDRT Safe?
Yes! Scientific studies confirm that LDRT is safe when used for osteoarthritis, with minimal risk of side effects. As mentioned in the article, radiotherapy targeting areas like hands, feet and knees are less concerning when it comes to long-term side effects of on-going radiation treatment. Additionally, LDRT tends to only be used to treat patients over 40 – so lifetime accumulation of radiation exposure is less of an issue.
Who Can Benefit from LDRT?
If you are wondering whether or not to seek LDRT treatment for an inflammatory condition, consider whether you suffer from:
- Moderate to severe osteoarthritis or other inflammatory condition of the hands, feet or knees
- Chronic joint pain and stiffness in the hands, feet or knees
If you are looking for a non-surgical or drug free way to combat your pain, LDRT may be able to help.
As the article mentions, LDRT is still growing in its use for these inflammatory conditions. We have put together a directory to help you find providers here.
Next Steps: Is LDRT Right for You?
Talk to your doctor about Low-Dose Radiotherapy as a treatment option for your osteoarthritis. If you are looking for a provider, visit our directory of locations where LDRT is currently being used.