Functional Radiation Medicine

Radiation therapy is most commonly recognized for its role in cancer treatment; however, its potential extends far beyond oncology. Emerging research and clinical applications demonstrate that radiation can play a significant role in enhancing patient quality of life by treating various non-oncologic conditions.

High‑dose radiation techniques, including stereotactic radiosurgery, are increasingly used to treat select neurologic conditions such as trigeminal neuralgia and other brain disorders. Additionally, low‑dose radiation therapy (LDRT) is also gaining renewed attention for its pain‑relieving effects for patients with disorders such as osteoarthritis and tendonitis, with growing interest in exploring innovative uses.

Grand Rounds

Grand Rounds is a series of international presentations exploring the use of radiation for non-oncologic conditions. Through these sessions, we aim to share knowledge, encourage collaboration, and highlight emerging evidence and clinical experiences from around the world.

Musculoskeletal/Inflammatory

Wednesday, February 25 at 4:00 p.m. Eastern time

Drs. Jarad Martin and Peter Gorayski from Australia will present emerging evidence on the application of low-dose radiation therapy for non-malignant conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Plantar Fasciitis and Ledderhose Disease in the inaugural Functional Radiation Medicine Grand Rounds event. Register today and be sure to mark your calendars! 

Low Dose Radiation Therapy Overview

• Growing Global Interest: There is an increasing international focus on the applications and potential of LDRT.
• Rich History: LDRT has been widely used in the management of musculoskeletal, inflammatory, and fibroproliferative diseases.
• Mechanisms of Action: LDRT exerts anti-inflammatory and anti-fibrotic effects, primarily through modulation of macrophage and cytokine activity. These biological effects may help reduce pain and improve mobility in affected patients.
• Need for Evidence: Rigorous, controlled clinical data are essential to validate the use of LDRT in these non-oncologic settings. Continued research and well-designed trials are critical to establishing best practices and ensuring patient safety.

Task Force

ASTRO’s Functional Radiation Medicine Task Force was established in late 2025 and is comprised of radiation oncologists and medical physicists from around the world who are currently using radiation for non-oncologic conditions. The Task Force is dedicated to advancing the safe, evidence-based use of radiation therapy for improved function and pain relief. By collaborating internationally, our members share expertise and pioneer new treatment protocols.

Mission

ASTRO’s Functional Radiation Medicine Task Force is dedicated to advancing the safe, evidence-based use of radiation therapy for nonmalignant conditions. The aim is to improve patient outcomes and quality of life by fostering high-quality research, generating clinical practice guidelines and consensus-based papers, and expanding the scope of practice and education for both trainees and practicing physicians.

To address the broad scope of functional radiation medicine, the Task Force is organized into three focused sub-groups:

• Musculoskeletal, Inflammatory, and Skin Conditions: Investigating the role of LDRT in conditions such as arthritis, tendinopathies and dermatologic disorders.
• CNS / Functional Neurology: Exploring applications of radiation therapy in neurological and functional nervous system disorders.
• Cardiac Ablation: Focusing on the use of radiation therapy for cardiac arrhythmias and related conditions.

Join Us

Clinicians, researchers and trainees are invited to participate in an informative, one-day Functional Radiation Medicine workshop. The event will be held on Saturday, September 26, during ASTRO’s 2026 Annual Meeting in Boston, Massachusetts. Educational content will cover clinical applications of functional radiation medicine related to the treatment of musculoskeletal, inflammatory and skin diseases; central nervous system and other functional neurologic conditions; as well as cardiac ablation. More information, including registration details, to come.