Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) for benign conditions
Dupuytren's contracture
Dupuytren’s contracture is a condition that affects the connective tissue beneath the skin of the palm and fingers. It causes the fingers, usually the ring and little fingers, to bend inward toward the palm, making it difficult to fully extend them. This happens due to the thickening and tightening of the fascia, which is the tissue that connects muscles to skin.
The exact cause is unknown, but it is believed to have a genetic component, and the condition is more common in people of Northern European descent, especially those over the age of 50. It can also be associated with other conditions, such as diabetes, alcohol use, and epilepsy.
While Dupuytren’s contracture typically progresses slowly, in more severe cases, it can significantly limit hand mobility and function. Treatment options include physical therapy, steroid injections, and in some cases, surgery to release contracted tissue.
As an alternative, low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) can help reduce pain and improve hand mobility, offering a non-surgical option for managing the condition.
LDRT is a non-invasive treatment option that has shown promise in early-stage Dupuytren’s Contracture or cases where surgery is not ideal. It involves applying a very low dose of targeted radiation to the affected area of the hand to slow or stop disease progression.
- Slows disease progression: One of the main benefits of LDRT is its ability to halt or significantly slow the progression of tissue thickening in the early stages. This can delay or even prevent the need for surgical intervention.
- Reduces pain and tenderness: Radiation helps reduce the inflammatory response and tissue irritation, often leading to a decrease in discomfort, itching, and pain in the palm or fingers.
- Improves hand mobility and function: By targeting the abnormal fibroblast activity responsible for the contracture, LDRT may help preserve or improve the range of motion and flexibility, especially when used before the fingers become severely bent.
- Non-surgical alternative: For patients who are not ideal candidates for surgery due to age, health conditions, or personal preference, LDRT offers a low-risk, outpatient-based treatment that doesn’t require recovery time.
- Minimal side effects: LDRT uses a very low and localized dose of radiation, which means the risk of long-term side effects is extremely low. Most patients tolerate the treatment well, with minimal skin irritation or temporary dryness as the most common effects.
- Evidence-based support: Several clinical studies, particularly in Europe, have demonstrated that LDRT can be effective in reducing symptoms and halting progression in up to 80-90% of early-stage cases, especially when contractures are mild and nodules are still forming.*
While not suitable for all cases, especially those with already severe contracture—LDRT can be a valuable tool in early intervention and symptom control.
When the doctor becomes the patient. Read about Dr. Jerome Spunberg’s successful radiation therapy for Dupuytren’s contracture.
References
- *Seegenschmiedt, M. H., Keilholz, L., & Altmann, U. (2001).
Radiotherapy for non-malignant disorders: State of the art and update of the evidence-based practice guidelines. International Journal of Radiation OncologyBiologyPhysics, 49(3), 567–576. - *Glickman, L. T., & Eaton, C. J. (2017).
Radiotherapy for early Dupuytren’s disease: A systematic review of the evidence. Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), 42(7), 689–693.
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones wears down over time. This leads to pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced mobility in the affected joints. OA can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly impacts the knees, hips, hands, spine, and feet. Less frequently, it may also involve the shoulders and ankles, particularly after injury or overuse.
- Aging: As people get older, the cartilage naturally wears down.
- Joint injury: Previous injuries to a joint can increase the risk of developing OA in that joint.
- Genetics: A family history of osteoarthritis can make someone more likely to develop the condition.
- Obesity: Extra body weight puts more stress on weight-bearing joints, like the knees and hips.
- Pain or tenderness in the affected joint, especially after activity or prolonged use.
- Swelling and stiffness, particularly in the morning or after sitting for a while.
- Limited range of motion, making it difficult to fully bend or extend the joint.
While there is no cure for osteoarthritis, treatment can help manage symptoms. These include physical therapy, medications (like pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs), lifestyle changes (such as weight management), and in severe cases, surgical interventions like joint replacement.
As an alternative, low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) can serve as a bridge therapy - buying time and potentially helping patients avoid or delay surgery – while easing joint pain and stiffness.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: LDRT works by modulating the immune response and suppressing the production of inflammatory cytokines in the affected joint tissues. This leads to a reduction in inflammation, one of the primary drivers of OA symptoms like pain and swelling.
- Long-lasting pain relief: Clinical studies have shown that LDRT can lead to a significant and sustained reduction in joint pain. Many patients report pain relief that lasts several months to years after completing a short course of treatment.
- Improved joint function: By reducing inflammation and pain, LDRT helps restore mobility and flexibility in stiff or swollen joints, making daily activities more manageable.
- Non-invasive and low risk: Unlike surgery or repeated corticosteroid injections, LDRT is a non-surgical option with minimal side effects. The radiation dose used is very low and highly localized to the joint, significantly reducing the risk of damage to surrounding tissues.
- Suitable for older adults and high-risk patients: LDRT may be particularly beneficial for older adults or those who cannot undergo surgery due to underlying medical conditions. It provides a safe, effective alternative to manage symptoms without the recovery time or risks associated with surgical interventions.
- Minimal disruption to daily life: LDRT is typically administered over a series of short outpatient sessions, requiring little to no downtime. Patients can often return to their normal activities immediately after each session.
Osteoarthritis can significantly impact quality of life, limiting mobility and causing persistent discomfort. While traditional treatments like medications, physical therapy, and surgery remain as options, low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) offers a promising, non-invasive alternative for those seeking effective relief without the risks or recovery time of surgery. With its anti-inflammatory properties, long-lasting pain relief, and suitability for older adults or high-risk patients, LDRT has emerged as a safe and practical option in OA management.
LDRT may be a suitable option if you are struggling with osteoarthritis and are looking for a new path to relief.
Schedule an appointment with our clinic today to discuss if low-dose radiation therapy is right for you. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you toward the best treatment plan tailored to your needs.
Resource
Dove APH, Cmelak A, Darrow K, McComas KN, Chowdhary M, Beckta J, Kirschner AN. The Use of Low-Dose Radiation Therapy in Osteoarthritis: A Review. Int J Radiat Oncol Biol Phys. 2022 Oct 1;114(2):203-220. doi: 10.1016/j.ijrobp.2022.04.029. Epub 2022 Apr 30. PMID: 35504501.
Plantar fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a common cause of heel pain, particularly in people who are active or on their feet for long periods. It occurs when the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes, becomes inflamed or irritated.
The condition is often caused by repetitive strain or excessive pressure on the foot, which can result in tiny tares in the plantar fascia. Over time, this leads to inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the heel, especially when getting up in the morning or after prolonged periods of rest.
- Sharp heel pain: Especially when taking the first few steps in the morning or after sitting for a while.
- Pain after long periods of standing or walking.
- Pain that decreases with activity but often returns after resting.
- Overuse or repetitive activity: Long periods of standing, running, or activities that put pressure on the feet.
- Tight calf muscles or Achilles tendon: This can increase the strain on the plantar fascia.
- Flat feet or high arches: Abnormal foot mechanics can stress the plantar fascia.
- Obesity: Extra weight adds additional pressure on the feet.
- Improper footwear: Wearing shoes that don't provide proper arch support or cushioning.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to relieve tension on the plantar fascia.
- Orthotic insoles to provide better arch support.
- Pain management through over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications or ice therapy.
- Physical therapy to improve foot mechanics and strength.
- In severe cases, treatments like corticosteroid injections or low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) may be used to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT)
LDRT is a non-invasive treatment option for chronic inflammatory conditions like plantar fasciitis, especially when conventional treatments have failed to provide lasting relief. It involves administering very low doses of ionizing radiation to the affected area. While the idea of using radiation might sound concerning, the doses used in LDRT are a fraction of those used in cancer treatments and are considered safe for localized, short-term therapy.
- Significant pain relief: Studies have shown that LDRT can lead to noticeable reductions in heel pain, especially in patients with long-standing symptoms.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Radiation at low doses has been found to inhibit inflammatory pathways and reduce swelling, helping calm the irritation in the plantar fascia.
- Improved function and mobility: Patients often report better foot function and increased mobility after treatment.
- Minimal side effects: Because the radiation dose is low and localized, side effects are typically rare and mild.
- Long-term effectiveness: Some patients experience sustained pain relief for months or even years following treatment.
With the right treatment and lifestyle adjustments, most people with plantar fasciitis can manage the condition and eventually recover. For those with chronic, treatment-resistant symptoms, LDRT offers a promising alternative to regain comfort and quality of life.
Keloids
Keloids are raised, lumpy scars that form when scar tissue grows excessively after a skin injury, such as a cut, burn, surgical incision, piercing, or bug bite. They are benign (non-cancerous), non-contagious, and can sometimes cause discomfort like itching or tenderness.
Keloids are more common in individuals under 30, people with darker skin tones, and can also run in families. While not harmful to health, they often appear in visible areas, which can cause self-consciousness or discomfort.
Challenges with keloid treatment
Keloids can be surgically removed, but they have a very high recurrence rate when surgery is used alone—typically between 45% and 100%. This makes it important to consider additional treatment options to prevent them from returning.
Benefits of LDRT for keloids
Radiation therapy after surgery has been shown to significantly reduce the chance of keloids growing back. When radiation is applied within 24 to 72 hours after surgical removal, recurrence rates drop dramatically—from up to 100% down to just 10–20%. Prompt treatment is key to minimizing the need for additional surgeries.
At GenesisCare, two advanced radiation methods are used specifically for keloids:
- Electron beam therapy
- Superficial X-ray therapy
Both treatments are non-invasive and target only the surface of the skin where the keloid formed. They are designed to avoid deeper tissues and nearby healthy structures, making them safe and highly effective for this purpose.
Learn more about how LDRT can be a successful treatment for keloids