Content oversight and quality assurance provided by Bay Area News Group.
Bay Area News Group advertising leadership oversees sponsored, native, and paid content on this platform, ensuring its quality, relevance, and helpfulness for our audience.
Articles attributed to this byline are authored by paying advertisers. The editorial team did not contribute to these pieces, and the opinions expressed do not necessarily represent those of the editorial staff. Refer to our partner statement to better understand the nature of the relationship.
The sponsor retains responsibility for the content and holds the copyright to their material.
SPONSORED CONTENT
By Epic Care and Rowan Briggs
When most people think of radiation therapy, they associate it with cancer treatment. However, radiation can also be used to alleviate joint pain. Low-dose radiation therapy (LD-RT) has been used as a treatment in Europe for decades to reduce pain and inflammation caused by osteoarthritis and other chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Now, this innovative therapy is gaining popularity in the U.S. as a safe and effective option for those who have not found relief with traditional treatments.
Unlike high-dose radiation used for cancer treatment, LD-RT delivers much lower doses to the body. “While radiation therapy is most commonly associated with cancer treatment, in lower doses, it serves as a powerful anti-inflammatory tool,” says Dr. Nicola Ally, a Board-Certified Radiation Oncologist at Epic Care. “We have seen remarkable success in alleviating pain for patients with osteoarthritis.”
LD-RT has shown positive outcomes in treating various musculoskeletal conditions, particularly osteoarthritis, a common degenerative joint disease that causes pain and stiffness. This therapy has been effective for relieving pain in the hands, knees, hips, ankles, shoulders, and spine. Additionally, LD-RT has shown promising results in treating conditions such as Dupuytren’s Contracture and Ledderhose Disease, which cause thickened connective tissues in the hands and feet. Early-stage radiation therapy may slow progression and delay the need for surgery. It has also been effective in managing plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the fibrous tissue along the bottom of the foot, helping improve mobility and reduce discomfort. However, this therapy is not currently offered for joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis, lupus arthritis, active joint infections, or fractures.
“LD-RT is a painless, non-invasive procedure that typically consists of six to eight treatment sessions,” explains Dr. Ally. “These sessions are scheduled either every other day or twice a week over a two- to three-week period, with each lasting less than 10 minutes. Additionally, multiple joints can be treated in the same visit.”
“Best of all, LD-RT has no acute or long-term side effects and is even suitable for patients who have previously undergone radiation for other conditions,” says Dr. Ally. “Patients can also continue their daily activities throughout treatment.”
LD-RT may be a suitable option for older osteoarthritis patients who have tried other pain management treatments without success. “For patients who haven’t found sufficient relief with medications, physical therapy, or injections, LD-RT may be considered before surgery,” says Dr. Ally. “Studies show this treatment can make a huge difference for those struggling to find a long-term, effective solution for pain management.”
Another advantage of LD-RT is its accessibility. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover the treatment, making it an option for many patients seeking pain relief. For those whose insurance does not cover the treatment, Epic Care can quote a private pay option.
Epic Care is proud to offer Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LD-RT) as part of its comprehensive radiation therapy services. “As experts in radiation technology, we are dedicated to delivering advanced treatments and are pleased to provide this leading-edge treatment for pain management,” says Dr. Ally. If you’re struggling with osteoarthritis or another chronic musculoskeletal condition, contact Epic Care at (925) 255-1066 to learn more about low-dose radiation therapy available at their Antioch, Dublin, Emeryville, Hayward, and Pleasant Hill locations.
For over 40 years, Epic Care has been a trusted, independent, physician-led, multi-specialty practice dedicated to providing high-quality, cost-effective care. In addition to advanced radiation therapy, Epic Care offers comprehensive healthcare services, including medical oncology, breast health, primary care, surgery, diagnostic imaging, and genetic counseling. With 12 convenient locations across the East Bay, patients can access exceptional healthcare close to home. Learn more at epic-care.com.
