Find Relief from Chronic Pain with Low-Dose Radiation Therapy

Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is a noninvasive treatment option for inflammatory and degenerative conditions. When most people hear “radiation therapy,” 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’t just the result of wear and tear over time. They also involve ongoing immune system–driven inflammation. LDRT works by calming this inflammation at its source. At Keck Medicine of USC, our radiation oncologists use precise technology to deliver LDRT safely, so you can get back to the activities you enjoy without pain.

When We Recommend Low-Dose Radiation Therapy

Sometimes patients continue to experience pain despite conservative treatments. We often turn to LDRT when medications aren’t effective or safe to use.

You may be a good candidate if you:

• Are 50 or older
• Have chronic pain caused by an inflammatory condition
• Have not found relief with anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy or injections
• Are not a candidate for surgery or prefer a nonsurgical option

LDRT can relieve pain from:

• Osteoarthritis
• Plantar fasciitis
• Tendinopathy
• Trochanteric bursitis
• Dupuytren’s contracture
• Other chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal disorders

Your care team will review your medical history, imaging and treatment goals to decide whether LDRT is right for you.

How Low-Dose Radiation Therapy Works

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’s used for cancer care.

What to Expect During Treatment Sessions

You’ll 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’ll return to the clinic for LDRT sessions. Most patients receive six total treatments delivered two to three times per week. You’ll 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’s no recovery time. You can return to your normal activities right away.

Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy Safe?

All forms of radiation carry some risk of cancer. With LDRT, that risk is extremely low — less than 1%. Your radiation oncologist will discuss the benefits and risks with you to help you make an informed decision about your care.

Pain Relief and Long-Term Results

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’ll 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.