Treatment Techniques

Many noncancer conditions can respond to low doses of radiation. Patients with conditions such as osteoarthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, bursitis, and more can be treated effectively with low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT). Radiation is generally considered for individuals who have not had adequate relief with standard treatments such as anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy. For these individuals, LDRT can be a noninvasive way to provide relief from pain and other symptoms. Patients treated with LDRT generally receive a series of radiation treatments spread out over 2 to 3 weeks, each lasting approximately 30 minutes. Treatments are well tolerated with limited side effects. Approximately two-thirds of patients will receive some degree of symptom relief and many patients have long-lasting relief.

Some noncancerous conditions can be treated with very focused, high-dose radiation therapy delivered with a technique called stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) or stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). Noncancerous conditions that can be treated with SBRT/SRS include trigeminal neuralgia, ventricular tachycardia, and arteriovenous malformation (AVM). Our radiation oncologists work closely with other specialists to develop a treatment plan. Patients often receive a single radiation treatment lasting 30 to 60 minutes, although multiple treatments may be necessary.