HICKORY, N.C. (WHKY) — Frye Regional Medical Center has expanded its treatment options for adults suffering from moderate to severe osteoarthritis.

Chief Executive Officer Lindy White says the hospital is now offering Low-Dose Radiation Therapy, commonly called LDRT, for eligible patients experiencing chronic joint pain and stiffness.

The noninvasive treatment uses carefully controlled, low doses of radiation directed at an affected joint. Frye Regional says the outpatient procedure does not require surgery or anesthesia and may help reduce pain and improve mobility. Hospital officials say it could also potentially delay joint-replacement surgery for some patients.

Each patient is evaluated individually to determine whether the therapy is appropriate based on the person’s condition, symptoms and medical history.

Radiation oncologist Dr. John delCharco says many osteoarthritis patients have tried medications, injections or other treatments without finding relief. He says the new therapy provides another noninvasive option that may help patients remain active.

The treatment is being delivered using Frye Regional’s recently installed linear accelerator. The equipment was unveiled earlier this year as part of a $4.1 million investment in the hospital’s cancer and radiation-therapy services.

For more information, call 828-315-3355.