Radiation therapy for Osteoarthritis

LDRT is a non-invasive treatment that uses tiny, carefully controlled doses of radiation to help reduce pain, improve joint function, and may help slow down joint damage over time. Unlike cancer radiation therapy, LDRT uses a much lower dose with minimal side effects.

It may be an option for people who haven’t found relief with physiotherapy or medication, are not suitable for surgery, or want an alternative to long-term pain medication. Backed by international clinical research, LDRT can work alongside standard treatments to help people move more comfortably and regain quality of life.

Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints, causing them to become stiff and painful. It most commonly affects the hips, knees, and small joints in the hands, but may occur anywhere in the body. It’s the most common form of arthritis in Australia affecting over 2 million people, more women than men.

People with osteoarthritis may experience:

• Continuous or worsening joint pain
• Stiffness and difficulty moving the affected joint
• Visible swelling or changes in joint shape

Symptoms often develop gradually and vary from person to person. Early on, pain may appear only during movement, but as the condition progresses, pain can remain even while resting.

While the exact causes of osteoarthritis are unknown, there are several risk factors:

• Genetics: 60% of people have a relative with the condition
• Repetitive use: strain on the joints from work, sport, or strenuous exercise
• Hormonal changes: menopause-related decline in the hormone oestrogen
• Injury: previous fractures or damage to joints
• Weight: excess weight increases stress on joints and can speed up the progression of the condition

Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) is a non-invasive treatment that may help people with osteoarthritis walk further, move more freely, and live with less pain. Unlike the higher doses of radiation therapy used to treat cancer, LDRT uses a much lower, highly targeted dose. It is not designed to complement, rather than replace, standard therapies, offering an additional treatment pathway for people who continue to have symptoms despite physiotherapy, medication, or other conservative measures.

International research and clinical experience show that LDRT may:

• Reduce pain and inflammation
• Improve joint function and mobility
• Potentially slow the progression of osteoarthritis

LDRT has been safely used overseas for more than a decade, with minimal side effects due to its tiny dose of radiation. It may be an option for people who:

• Have not found relief with physiotherapy or medication
• Are not suitable candidates for surgery
• Prefer an alternative to long-term pain medication or surgery

“We’re harnessing the power of precision radiation therapy to bring relief to people living with chronic pain caused by osteoarthritis. For patients who continue to have osteoarthritis symptoms despite physiotherapy, medication, or other conservative measures, it’s the chance to reclaim mobility, comfort, and quality of life.” – Dr Peter Gorayski, Icon South Australia

By helping reduce pain and improve mobility, LDRT may support a more active, comfortable lifestyle and help people enjoy everyday activities again.

LDRT may be considered in people aged 40+ with:

• Mild to moderate osteoarthritis, as confirmed by x-ray,
• Moderate to severe pain despite medication, and/or physiotherapy, or
• Younger patients with treatment-resistant plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, or bursitis.

A radiation oncologist will meet with you, review your symptoms and scans, and help decide whether LDRT is the right option for you.

At Icon, we understand that starting a new treatment can feel overwhelming. We’ll guide you through each step, tailoring your treatment to your individual needs.

• Consultation and assessment – Meet with a radiation oncologist to discuss your symptoms, review your medical history, and determine if LDRT is suitable for you.
• Personalised treatment plan – Your care team will design a plan focused on reducing pain and improving mobility.
• Outpatient treatment sessions – LDRT sessions are quick, painless, and typically have minimal side effects.
• Ongoing support – We’ll monitor your progress and be available to answer questions at every stage of your treatment.

At Icon, we’re committed to delivering the highest quality care, close to home. With over 40 centres across Australia, we combine advanced radiation technology with a team of experienced radiation oncologists who specialise in treatments like LDRT. We’re here to:

• Provide care grounded in international evidence and clinical expertise,
• Deliver treatment that is safe, precise, and tailored to your needs,
• Work alongside your existing care team to ensure a coordinated approach.

Our focus is on helping you move more comfortably and regain quality of life, supported by a team who puts your care first.