Low Dose Radiation Therapy

Arthritis and other inflammatory conditions can make even the simplest daily activities difficult. For many patients, medications, injections or physical therapy may only provide temporary relief.

NELCI offers low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) as an advanced, noninvasive option designed to reduce inflammation, relieve pain and improve mobility. Patients often begin to experience relief within weeks of starting treatment.

What is Low-Dose RAdiation TherapyY (LDRT)?

Low-dose radiation therapy uses targeted, very small doses of radiation to treat inflammation in affected joints and tissues. Unlike the higher doses used in cancer treatment, LDRT is focused on relieving pain and improving joint function.

How it Works

Arthritis pain is often driven by inflammation within the joint. Low-dose radiation therapy targets inflammation at the source. By calming the body’s inflammatory response, LDRT can help reduce pain and improve movement overtime.

Conditions We Treat

Low-dose radiation therapy may be appropriate for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, including:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Dupuytren’s contracture
• Tennis elbow
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis

Your NELCI  care team will evaluate your condition and determine if this treatment is right for you.

What to Expect

Your care begins with a consultation to review your symptoms and determine if low-dose radiation therapy is appropriate for you.

A short planning session follows to prepare your treatment. Patients then typically complete six treatment sessions,  delivered two to three times per week. Each session lasts approximately 10 to 15 minutes.

Treatment is painless and similar to getting an X-ray. Most patients return to normal activities immediately after each visit.

Many patients begin to notice improvement within a few weeks of starting treatment. Relief may last one to two years, and treatment can be repeated if needed.

Why Patients Choose LDRT

Low-dose radiation therapy may be an option for patients who:

• Have persistent arthritis or joint pain despite other treatments
• Are looking to avoid or delay surgery
• Want a longer-lasting option for pain relief

Your physician will help determine if this treatment is appropriate based on your medical history and symptoms.

Take the Next Steps

If low-dose radiation therapy is right for your condition. Call us today at 318-966-1900 or 318-329-4800.