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LOW-DOSE RADIOTHERAPY

Method
Low-dose radiotherapy to treat pain
Duration
5 to 15 minutes per session
Course of treatment
6 to 12 sessions, depending on the condition

Low-dose radiotherapy is a well-established treatment for inflammatory and painful conditions of the musculoskeletal system. Low-dose X-rays inhibit inflammation and relieve pain. This treatment has been used successfully for many decades.

How does low-dose radiotherapy work?

In low-dose radiotherapy, low-dose X-rays are directed specifically at the affected tissue. The dose is considerably lower than in a diagnostic X-ray and is optimised for therapeutic purposes. The treatment is given in several sessions over a period of 2 to 4 weeks.

The X-rays inhibit inflammation in the tissue and reduce the activity of inflammatory cells. At the same time the blood supply improves and the pain receptors are influenced positively. This leads to lasting relief of pain and an improvement in the symptoms.

The treatment is carried out as a day case and is painless. During the session you lie relaxed on a couch while the X-ray machine directs the rays at the affected area. The session itself lasts only a few minutes and is very well tolerated.

The number of sessions depends on your individual symptoms. Typically 6 to 12 sessions at intervals of 2 to 3 days are recommended. The effect usually sets in within a few weeks and can last several months to years.

What we treat

Low-dose radiotherapy can be used successfully for a range of orthopaedic complaints. Our experienced doctors develop an individual treatment plan for every patient.

Inflammatory joint conditions

With inflammatory joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, low-dose radiotherapy can inhibit inflammation and relieve pain. Particularly effective with chronically inflamed joints.

Tendon inflammation

With tendon inflammation such as tennis elbow or Achilles tendinopathy, radiotherapy can reduce the inflammation and support healing. Particularly effective with chronic tendon problems.

Heel spur

With a heel spur, low-dose radiotherapy can reduce the inflammation and relieve the pain. The treatment is particularly effective with chronic heel pain.

Chronic pain

With chronic pain, radiotherapy can influence the pain receptors positively and bring lasting relief. Particularly effective with pain that has not responded to other treatment.