Low-Dose Radiation Therapy May Slow Progression of Knee Osteoarthritis, Long-Term Study Indicates .

Could low-dose radiation therapy alter the course of knee osteoarthritis? A long-term analysis of a randomized trial involving 292 patients found sustained improvements in pain, physical function and quality of life following low-dose radiation therapy compared with medication alone. Magnetic resonance imaging also revealed less structural deterioration, while treated patients had a 67% lower adjusted hazard of disability certification. The findings suggest a potential therapeutic role in early disease, although further independent trials are needed to confirm long-term efficacy and safety.