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Our radiation oncologists provide low-dose radiation therapy, an innovative treatment option for chronic pain and inflammation.
Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is a noninvasive treatment option for inflammatory and degenerative conditions. When most people hear 鈥渞adiation therapy,鈥 they think of cancer treatment. LDRT is different. It uses a much, much lower dose of radiation to reduce inflammation, ease pain and improve movement.
Conditions like osteoarthritis aren鈥檛 just the result of wear and tear over time. They also involve ongoing immune system鈥揹riven inflammation. LDRT works by calming this inflammation at its source. At 喵咪社区, our radiation oncologists use precise technology to deliver LDRT safely, so you can get back to the activities you enjoy without pain.
Sometimes patients continue to experience pain despite conservative treatments. We often turn to LDRT when medications aren鈥檛 effective or safe to use.
You may be a good candidate if you:
LDRT can relieve pain from:
Your care team will review your medical history, imaging and treatment goals to decide whether LDRT is right for you.
LDRT works by targeting immune cells, which are especially sensitive to radiation. The radiation helps quiet the overactive immune cells in areas with chronic inflammation. By calming inflammation at its source, LDRT can reduce pain, stiffness and swelling. The amount of radiation used in LDRT is much lower than what鈥檚 used for cancer care.
You鈥檒l receive LDRT in an outpatient radiation oncology clinic. The first step is a planning visit, which includes a specialized CT scan to map the treatment area. Your care team may create a custom mold to help you stay in the same position during each session. This way, the radiation is precise and consistent.
Later, you鈥檒l return to the clinic for LDRT sessions. Most patients receive six total treatments delivered two to three times per week. You鈥檒l complete a full course in about two weeks.
Each visit lasts about 15 minutes. Most of the appointment focuses on careful positioning and alignment. Your provider then quickly delivers the radiation treatment using targeted X-rays. Side effects are minimal, and there鈥檚 no recovery time. You can return to your normal activities right away.
All forms of radiation carry some risk of cancer. With LDRT, that risk is extremely low 鈥 less than 1%. Your radiation oncologist will discuss the benefits and risks with you to help you make an informed decision about your care.
Patients treated with LDRT for degenerative and inflammatory conditions experience pain improvement. Many people report lasting relief for years. Some even notice improvement during treatment.After treatment, you鈥檒l check in with your radiation oncologist to assess symptom improvement and discuss next steps. Our team is available throughout your care to answer questions and provide ongoing support.
喵咪社区 is a destination for specialty care, including complex conditions and chronic pain.
You have access to leading specialists in radiation oncology.
Our team combines advanced diagnostic services with innovative treatments to improve your quality of life.