Radiation oncologists at UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham Bruno Cancer Center and UAB St. Vincent’s East Cancer Treatment Center are offering low-dose radiation as a treatment for patients with osteoarthritis (OA). OA is the most common form of arthritis in adults and occurs when the cartilage protecting the joints breaks down over time, causing chronic pain and loss of mobility.

“Numerous recent studies have shown that low-dose radiation therapy for joints affected by osteoarthritis can lead to moderate to long-term pain relief and improvement of mobility with minimal side effect,” said Susan Salter, MD, radiation oncologist UAB St. Vincent’s Birmingham.

During the treatment, an X-ray delivers ultra-low doses of radiation to the entire affected joint to help inhibit the inflammation that often causes pain in patients. One course comprises six 10-minute treatments delivered over two weeks.

Patients who are ideal candidates include those who suffer from chronic osteoarthritis that has not responded to standard first-line treatments like exercise, weight loss, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and steroid injections. The treatment is also a good option for those who have limited surgical options.