Osteoarthritis Relief with Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT)

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common causes of joint pain and disability, affecting millions of adults across the U.S. For many, traditional treatments like pain medication, injections, or even surgery may not provide lasting relief. That’s why Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center in Walnut Creek is proud to now offer Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) — a safe, non-invasive option designed to reduce joint pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.

What Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT)?

Low-Dose Radiation Therapy has been used internationally for more than 100 years and is now gaining recognition in the United States as an effective treatment for osteoarthritis. Unlike high-dose cancer treatments, LDRT uses extremely small amounts of radiation to calm inflammation in the joints and reduce pain, without the side effects of surgery or long-term medication use.

How Does LDRT Help Osteoarthritis?

• Targeted treatment: A low radiation dose is delivered directly to the affected joint.
• Reduces inflammation: LDRT modulates the immune response, slowing the progression of osteoarthritis.
• Quick sessions: Treatments last about 10 minutes, with actual radiation exposure under 20 seconds. A full course typically includes 6–8 sessions over several weeks.

Benefits of LDRT for Osteoarthritis Patients

• Rapid pain relief – Some patients notice improvement after the first session.
• Long-lasting results – Relief may last up to two years and treatments can be repeated.
• Minimal side effects – No burning, skin changes, or downtime. Patients can return to normal activities immediately.
• Non-invasive alternative – Especially valuable for those who want to avoid or are not candidates for surgery.

Who Can Benefit from LDRT?

LDRT is best suited for:

• Adults with osteoarthritis in the knees, hips, hands, shoulders, elbows, or ankles.
• Patients 65 and older who have not found relief with other treatments.
• Individuals not ready for or unable to undergo joint replacement surgery.

Safety of Low-Dose Radiation Therapy

Safety is a top concern for patients considering radiation treatment. With LDRT, the dose used is about 3 units compared to the 40–80 units commonly used in cancer therapy. This makes the risk of side effects or secondary cancer very low. Studies worldwide show that roughly two-thirds of patients experience significant improvement.

LDRT at Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center

At Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center, part of BASS Medical Group, patients have access to advanced technology and a compassionate care team. Our specialists deliver personalized treatment plans in a comfortable outpatient setting — helping patients return to everyday activities with less pain and more confidence.

Learn more about our new Low-Dose Radiation Therapy service here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy covered by insurance?‍

Yes. LDRT is covered by Medicare and most major insurance plans.

How quickly will I notice results?‍

Many patients report improvement after the first treatment, with maximum benefit after completing all six sessions.

Can LDRT be repeated?‍

Yes. Relief can last up to two years, and treatments can be safely repeated if symptoms return.

Conclusion

If you’re living with osteoarthritis pain that hasn’t improved with medication or injections, Low-Dose Radiation Therapy may be the safe, effective option you’ve been waiting for. Now available at Gregory Rhodes MD Cancer Center in Walnut Creek, this treatment offers a proven way to reduce pain and regain mobility — without surgery or long recovery times.

‍Call (925) 433-8786 to schedule a consultation and see if LDRT is right for you.