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Comprehensive Cancer Centers shares details how low-dose radiation therapy has emerged as a viable treatment option for osteoarthritis pain.

As the population of Southern Nevada, and the rest of the United States gets older, instances of Osteoarthritis (OA) are increasing. Diagnoses have risen steadily between 1990 and 2019 , placing a significant strain on society, and is expected to increase in years to come. Comprehensive Cancer Centers sees this pattern, and understands the impact that OA has on people, as well as the potential for low-dose radiation to help people dealing with OA.

To get started, Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, affecting millions worldwide. The degenerative joint disease is characterized by a breakdown of cartilage, the smooth, rubbery tissue that cushions bones and facilitates smooth joint movement. Loss of cartilage leads to bones rubbing against each other. This friction causes pain, swelling, and a decrease in mobility.

Osteoarthritis pain significantly affects an individual’s ability to perform what were once simple, daily activities including walking and climbing stairs. As OA progresses, tasks like opening jars and typing become challenging. The pain’s chronic nature leads to decreased physical activity, which can further exacerbate symptoms. OA’s progression contributes cycles of pain, stiffness, and muscle weakness.

Additionally, OA pain has a substantial emotional and psychological impact. Constant, chronic pain may lead to depression, anxiety, and even social withdrawal. Fear of pain or worsening of OA symptoms can result in avoidance of physical activity. That, in turn, can lead to weight gain which causes additional stress on joints.

Characteristics of Osteoarthritis Pain
Osteoarthritis pain typically manifests as a deep, aching sensation in the affected joint. It can vary in intensity, from mild discomfort to severe pain that significantly impairs movement and quality of life. Commonly affected areas include the knees, hips, hands, and spine. The pain is often described as worse with activity and relieved by rest, although it can persist during periods of inactivity, especially after prolonged use or at the end of the day.

Morning stiffness is another hallmark of OA, usually lasting less than 30 minutes. As the day progresses and the joints are used, stiffness tends to diminish. However, prolonged periods of inactivity, such as sitting or lying down, can lead to stiffness and pain upon resuming movement, a phenomenon known as gelling.

The pain associated with OA arises from several sources within the joint and surrounding tissues:

  • Cartilage Degradation: Cartilage wears away and exposed bone ends produce pain. The bones then develop osteophytes or bone spurs, which contribute to discomfort and impede joint function.
  • Synovial Inflammation: The synovium, a membrane lining the joint, can become inflamed and thickened. That results in extra fluid and that causes swelling and pain.
  • Bone Changes: The layer of bone just below the cartilage undergoes changes in OA, becoming thicker and more sclerotic and can be a significant source of pain.
  • Ligament and Muscle Involvement: Ligaments, tendons, and muscles surrounding joints become inflamed due to altered joint mechanics and instability.

Management of Osteoarthritis Pain
Managing pain with osteoarthritis can be a challenge. Some patients may have a difficult time finding relief from typical pain management methods, like exercise, braces, or topical pain relievers. But thanks to advances in technology, there are alternative treatment methods like low-dose radiation therapy (LD-RT), that are provided by the team at Comprehensive Cancer Centers.

LD-RT is a proven, effective treatment that has been used to treat a variety of painful musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis.  It was first used shortly after X-rays were discovered and has become more common as radiation therapy techniques have improved. When given at a lower dosage, radiation therapy has powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to manage osteoarthritis pain.

Studies show LD-RT brings significant pain relief to osteoarthritis patients without side effects, according to Comprehensive Physicians. The treatment can make a huge difference for patients struggling to find a long-term, effective solution for pain management.

Low-Dose Radiation Therapy Provides Significant, Lasting Pain Relief with No Side Effects
LD-RT is the most commonly used pain management treatment for osteoarthritis in Europe and is now seeing increasing usage in the United States and around the world as research continues to show significant pain relief. Multiple studies have shown a pain improvement rate of over 70 percent after the initial set of treatments. The majority of patients also reported lasting pain relief two years after beginning LD-RT.

Due to the low dosage of radiation, treatment for osteoarthritis has no reported acute side effects.  A long-term review of over 1000 patients found that one patient reported some mild skin redness. No other acute or late effects were reported.

Effective management of OA pain can involve a combination of non-pharmacological approaches include physical therapy, exercise, weight management, and the use of assistive devices. These strategies help maintain joint function, reduce pain, and improve overall quality of life.

Additional pharmacological treatments such as acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroid injections can provide relief. In severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement may be necessary.

Osteoarthritis pain is a multifaceted symptom resulting from cartilage degradation, synovial inflammation, bone changes, and ligament or muscle involvement. It significantly impacts daily functioning and emotional well-being. Comprehensive management tailored to the individual’s needs can help alleviate pain and improve life quality.

Comprehensive Cancer Centers Can Help
Radiation oncologists at Comprehensive Cancer Centers provide an alternative treatment  for patients suffering from Osteoarthritis pain. To schedule an appointment with the team at Comprehensive to see if low-dose radiation could help with your OA, please call 702-952-3350.

The content is this post is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.

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