Many people with osteoarthritis are used to dealing with pain on a daily basis. They anticipate the challenges of performing simple tasks, such as climbing stairs, getting up from a chair or doing household chores. They are also well-acquainted with the unpleasant symptoms of joint pain, stiffness, swelling, weakness and reduced range of motion in their limbs. Often, these symptoms are considered inevitable, but low dose radiotherapy treatment is offering patients a new reality.
Osteoarthritis is a progressive disease that causes joint tissues to break down over time, reducing cushioning between the bone and the joint. This can damage various parts of the body, including cartilage, tendons, ligaments, joint linings and bones. The most commonly affected joints are in the hands, knees, hips, neck or lower back. This disease not only makes movement more difficult, but it can also contribute to fatigue, sleep troubles and even feelings of depression.
Fortunately, an effective treatment can help alleviate pain for osteoarthritis patients. Low dose radiotherapy (LDRT) is used to reduce inflammation in the joints and prevent long-term effects of joint damage. Individuals who undergo LDRT have less need for opioid narcotics, anti-inflammatory medications, injections and even surgeries. The treatment was introduced to the Flathead Valley in 2023 by a team of specialists at Logan Health Radiation Oncology. Mallory Pursley, ARNP, AOCNP, coordinator of the osteoarthritis program, explained, “although it is new for us in the valley, low dose radiotherapy has been used for decades, especially in Europe, where they have years of research on its benefits and risks.”
The significant benefit of this treatment is that it has very few side effects. “Low dose radiotherapy is very well tolerated,” Pursley said. “A small percentage, one in 100, may experience some transient skin redness, nail changes if we’re treating hands and feet, and fatigue, but it’s temporary.” The treatment is offered to people over 60 years old. So far, Pursley and her team have treated 30 patients, and the treatment’s popularity continues to grow.
Patients receiving LDRT undergo six treatments every other day, from Monday to Friday, each lasting 15 minutes. After eight weeks, they return for a follow-up appointment to discuss how it is working. Approximately half of the patients experience enough relief from pain and stiffness to stop treatment. For those who do not, the cycle can be repeated. “About 50% of people see some reduction in pain and stiffness and improved functionality over one course,” Pursley explained. “Many patients will pursue a second course around two to three months later, with the same schedule. After the second course, the success rate increases to 80-90% seeing improvement.” For many, this newfound pain relief proves to be life changing.
Pain-free mobility has had an incredible impact on patients, allowing them to resume activities that were once challenging or abandoned altogether. They can once again walk the dog, cook, play golf and chase their grandkids around. Pursley added that restoring mobility in the hands has often brought the most transformation. “Some of these individuals have been struggling for years with daily activities like eating, writing, brushing their hair or getting dressed, due to the stiffness, pain and lack of functionality in their hands. Even at just 50% improvement, we can really improve their quality of life.”
One of her patients confirmed this wholeheartedly. “I was surprised to hear about the reported benefits of radiation in decreasing arthritic pain, but it has been remarkably successful! After just six treatments, there has been a substantial decrease in the arthritic pain I feel in my hands. To know there is a treatment besides medication to help manage the pain and loss of functioning has given me hope and less pain!”
Thanks to the benefits of low dose radiotherapy, the outlook is bright for people with chronic pain due to osteoarthritis. Pursley and her team are honored to provide this care locally and treat patients in their community. Anyone interested in low dose radiotherapy can ask their primary care provider for a referral or self-refer by contacting Logan Health Radiation Oncology at (406) 752-1790.