Low-dose radiotherapy for osteoarthritis: A practical adjunct for general practice.

BACKGROUND

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a leading cause of pain and disability, and many patients have persistent symptoms despite first- line therapies. Low-dose radiotherapy (LDRT) has re-emerged as a potential anti-inflammatory treatment for OA, with widespread use in parts of Europe but limited awareness in Australia.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this article is to review current evidence on LDRT for OA and provide general practitioners (GPs) with practical guidance on patient selection, referral pathways and integration of LDRT into OA management.

DISCUSSION: Recent studies suggest LDRT can yield moderate- to long-term pain relief and functional improvement in OA, especially in knee OA. Overall, approximately 60-70% of patients may experience symptomatic improvement, as supported by two reported randomised controlled trials. Ideal LDRT candidates are those with chronic refractory OA who are unsuitable for, or wish to postpone, surgery. While GPs should continue standard OA management, LDRT may offer select patients an additional non- surgical management option with minimal side effects.