Breakthrough in Osteoarthritis Treatment

A randomized trial led by Korean researchers has shown that low-dose radiation therapy (LDRT) offers significant pain relief and improved mobility for those with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis. Over 100 patients participated at three major hospitals, receiving either low-dose, very-low-dose, or sham (placebo) therapy. Seventy percent of patients in the low-dose group reported meaningful improvement after four months, compared to 42% with placebo and 58% with very-low-dose, which was not statistically different from placebo.

Unlike standard cancer treatments, the radiation dose used was less than 5% of typical oncology levels (ScienceAlert). Patient safety was prioritized, with radiation targeting only the affected joint and strict limits on pain medication to accurately measure results.