Episcopal Health Services announced on March 24 that it is now offering low dose radiotherapy (LDRT) to treat adults with medically refractory osteoarthritis using its new TrueBeam linear accelerator. The RAPID Program (Radiation for Arthritis & Painful Inflammatory Disorders), led by Mark Ashamalla, MD, Chief of Radiation Oncology at EHS, is the first initiative of its kind on the Rockaway Peninsula.
The introduction of LDRT offers a nonsurgical option for patients suffering from inflammation and pain in joints and tissues when traditional treatments have not provided relief. This development matters as osteoarthritis is a widespread condition affecting more than 32.5 million adults in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Unlike radiation used in cancer therapy, LDRT applies very low doses aimed at reducing inflammation and modulating immune responses in targeted areas. Treatments are typically delivered over about six short sessions lasting only a few minutes each. There is no required recovery time after each session, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately.
“LDRT is an evidence-based treatment that is safe, effective, and non-invasive for inflammatory and degenerative conditions of the tendons, joints, and other soft tissues of the body,” said Dr. Ashamalla. “Studies show an 80% response rate with a patient achieving a steady state in terms of their pain and function. Treatments are short and simple, and it can significantly improve pain and stiffness, helping avoid the need for surgery.”
The RAPID Program targets individuals over age 40 with conditions such as osteoarthritis affecting various joints; plantar fasciitis; calcific tendonitis; tennis elbow; other tendon or ligament inflammations; dupuytren’s disease; as well as keloids and hypertrophic scars. It may be especially beneficial before considering joint replacement or other invasive procedures.
EHS provides these services at its Walsh Ambulatory Pavilion on the Rockaway Peninsula in Queens, New York—a region known for its diverse population that often faces barriers to medical care. The health system states it offers comprehensive preventive, diagnostic treatment, rehabilitative services regardless of ability to pay.
