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Radiation Therapy for Osteoarthritis: A Safe, Noninvasive Way to Relieve Joint Pain 

Hands of an elderly person with visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles and age spots, gently clasped together, wearing a gold wedding ring. The person is dressed in a light pink shirt and a beige knitted sweater. On the left side, there is a green gradient background with a white circular geometric symbol above the text "Radiation Therapy for Osteoarthritis.

At Ackerman Cancer Center, our mission is to deliver the highest quality personalized care while serving people across all walks of life. In addition to providing advanced radiation oncology treatments, we are dedicated to improving quality of life through innovative therapies that reduce pain, ease symptoms, and promote healing from Arthritis. 

For patients struggling with chronic arthritis pain who haven’t found lasting relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy, there is another option. Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT) is a safe, non-invasive treatment that can help reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain without surgery or long-term medication use. 

What Is Low-Dose Radiation Therapy (LDRT)? 

LDRT uses a very small, precisely controlled dose of radiation to calm inflammation in painful joints. Unlike higher-dose radiation used to treat cancer, LDRT delivers only what is needed to decrease swelling, slow disease progression, and support joint health. 

Here’s how it works: 

  • Reduces inflammation: LDRT decreases activity in inflammatory cells that cause pain and stiffness. 
  • Helps regulate the immune system: It balances the body’s response to inflammation, minimizing long-term damage. 
  • Supports lasting pain relief: Many patients experience steady improvement and better mobility following treatment. 

What to Expect During Treatment 

LDRT treatments are quick, comfortable, and do not require anesthesia or downtime. Each session lasts around 15- 20 minutes and takes place on an outpatient basis. 

A typical course of care includes: 

  1. Consultation: Your radiation oncologist reviews your diagnosis, symptoms, and previous treatments. 
  1. Treatment planning: A CT scan is used to map the exact area being treated for precise targeting. 
  1. Treatment sessions: Most patients receive treatment two to three times per week for about two weeks. 
  1. Follow-up: Our board-certified radiation oncologists monitor your progress and adjust your plan as needed. 

Most patients begin to notice improvement within one to three months. If necessary, an additional series of treatments may be recommended safely later on. 

Who May Benefit from LDRT 

You may be a good candidate for LDRT if you: 

  • Experience chronic joint pain that worsens with movement or weight-bearing 
  • Have morning stiffness lasting 30 minutes or more 
  • Have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis or another inflammatory joint condition 
  • Get only partial relief from medications, injections, or physical therapy 

Safety and Effectiveness 

Modern research continues to confirm its safety and success. Studies show that: 

  • About two-thirds of patients report significant pain relief after their first treatment course 
  • A majority of patients who receive a second course experience additional improvement 
  • Overall, about 80% of patients enjoy better mobility and reduced pain 

Because the radiation dose is much lower than what is used in cancer treatment, side effects are minimal, and the therapy is considered very safe. In fact, LDRT is widely used in countries such as Germany to help patients living with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. 

Cost of Care at Ackerman Cancer Center 

The out-of-pocket cost is $4,000, which covers the full course of treatment. Please note that the initial consultation with a board-certified radiation oncologist will be billed separately through your insurance, and a co-pay may apply based on your individual plan.

For your convenience, we accept credit cards, debit cards, cash, checks, and money orders at our office.

Learn More 

If you’d like to learn whether Low-Dose Radiation Therapy could help relieve your arthritis pain, contact Ackerman Cancer Center to schedule a consultation with one of our radiation oncologists by visiting our website or calling (904) 880-5522. 

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Arlean Marcellus, BS

Physician Liaison

Arlean Marcellus joined Ackerman Cancer Center in March 2023 and leads physician outreach. She builds and strengthens meaningful partnerships with referring physicians, healthcare facilities, and medical groups, driving growth in patient referrals. Arlean holds a degree in Health Science with a concentration in Public Health from the University of North Florida. Beyond her work, she volunteers with Feeding Northeast Florida. In her free time, Arlean enjoys running, roller skating, and spending time with her family.

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Shelby Goodman, MSW

Oncology Social Worker

Shelby Goodman joined the Ackerman Cancer Center team in January 2023 as the oncology social worker. She earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in social work from the University of North Florida and went on to become a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW). With over five years of experience supporting individuals and families in the social work field, her practice focuses on psychosocial support, care coordination, and advocacy to enhance the quality of life for patients and their loved ones. Shelby is a member of the Florida Society of Oncology Social Workers (FSOSW). In her free time, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family and dog.

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Kali Molter, MBA

Community Relations Specialist

Kali Molter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in August 2024 and supports community outreach, marketing initiatives, and engagement efforts. She holds both a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Business Administration in marketing from the University of North Florida. A Jacksonville native and Bishop Kenny alum, Kali is passionate about contributing to and strengthening the local community. She brings experience in hospitality and event management and serves on the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX Professional Development and Community Engagement committees. Outside of work, Kali enjoys living at the beach, running and yoga, traveling, and is a lifelong Jacksonville Jaguars fan.

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Ceilidgh O'Brien, BS

Patient Relations Manager

Ceilidgh O’Brien is the patient relations manager at Ackerman Cancer Center, where she leads the patient relations team and helps ensure every patient experience is organized, supportive, and welcoming. She oversees scheduling and communications and is passionate about creating efficient processes that help patients and staff feel
informed, supported, and cared for. Ceilidgh earned a Bachelor of Science in health sciences from the University of South Florida in 2024 and values building strong, compassionate connections with both patients and colleagues. A Boston native, Ceilidgh traded snow for sunshine and now spends her free time running with friends
and supporting the Jacksonville Humane Society.

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Tiffany Vaughn, RT (R)(T)

Manager, Radiation Therapy & Imaging

Tiffany Vaughn brings extensive experience and steady leadership to Ackerman Cancer Center, with 24 years of service to the practice. For the past 15 years, she has served in leadership roles, overseeing both radiation therapy and imaging departments with a focus on quality care, collaboration, and operational excellence. Tiffany is a proud
member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. She earned her technologist degree from St.
Vincent’s Medical Center and completed radiation therapy training from Washburn
University. Outside of work, Tiffany enjoys spending time with her family, relaxing in or
around the water, and taking on hands-on projects around her home.

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Vivienne Bennett, MS, RT(R)(M)​

Clinic Manager

Vivienne Bennett joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2013 as a mammography technologist and was promoted in 2021 to oncology clinic manager, overseeing clinical operations across all four locations. She provides leadership for daily clinic operations, supports multidisciplinary oncology teams, ensures regulatory and accreditation compliance, and implements operational strategies to improve quality, safety, and patient experience. Vivienne holds a master’s degree in medical radiation sciences from the University of Sydney in Australia and is a member of the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Outside of work, she enjoys watching sports, walking, and spending time with friends and family.

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Timothy Scott, RTR, RTT, CMD

Manager, Dosimetry, Facilities, & Research

Tim Scott joined Ackerman Cancer Center in 2003 and brings nearly 40 years of experience in radiation oncology and medical dosimetry operations. He oversees medical dosimetry, facilities, special projects, and research and has played a key role in nearly every building project and major technology launch at the center. Tim is passionate about innovation and the development, construction, and commissioning of advanced treatment technologies, including proton therapy. Beyond his professional work, Tim serves as a worship pastor and is a brass musician. In his free time, he enjoys restoring classic cars and spending time on the lake.

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Greg Sarkisov, BS

Director of Information Technology

Greg Sarkisov joined Ackerman Cancer Center in September 2019 and oversees all
facets of information technology and information security within the organization. Greg has over twenty years of experience in information technology and security. With over six of those years in our practice, he has led initiatives to strengthen our core security and expand the use of various technologies to help aid our staff in providing effective
and efficient patient care. Greg holds a Bachelor of Science degree in information
systems security from ITT Technical Institute. Outside of work, he stays active in the
community and is a member of the IT Council with the Jacksonville Chamber of
Commerce. In his free time, Greg enjoys spending time with his family and friends.

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Jennifer Zelaya, MHA

Director of Human Resources

Jenny Zelaya is the director of human resources at Ackerman Cancer Center and
Ackerman Urology, where she oversees all HR functions and fosters a positive,
inclusive workplace culture. She holds a master’s degree in health administration from the University of Miami and brings extensive experience in talent management, employee engagement, and regulatory compliance. Fluent in Spanish, Jennifer enjoys staying active outside of work, playing pickleball, golfing with friends and family, and spending time with her golden retriever, Lenny.

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Amy Mousa, CPA

Director of Finance and Accounting

Amy Mousa joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2021 and serves as the
director of finance and accounting. In her role, she oversees financial operations and supports the organization’s strategic and operational goals. Amy holds a Florida CPA license and earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in accounting from the
University of North Florida. Outside of work, she enjoys staying active, traveling, and
spending quality time with her family.

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Nelson Miksys, PhD, MCCPM

Chief Medical Physicist

Nelson Miksys joined Ackerman Cancer Center in October 2019. As chief medical physicist, Nelson manages the medical physics department, which is responsible for
quality assurance of all patient treatment plans, calibration of the radiation therapy equipment, maintenance of the radiation safety program, integration of new technology
into the clinic, and providing clinical technical support across all aspects of the cancer center. Nelson has over ten years of experience as a medical physicist and comes to Ackerman Cancer Center from The Ottawa Hospital Cancer Centre (Ottawa, Canada). Nelson has a PhD in medical physics from Carleton University (Ottawa, Canada) and a
master’s degree in medical and health physics from McMaster University (Hamilton,
Canada). Outside of work, Nelson is actively involved in his children’s sports activities and community social events and is passionate about maintaining a healthy lifestyle through regular physical fitness and outdoor activities.

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Robert Tokarz, MS, DABR

Vice President, Technical Services

Rob Tokarz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in January 2014 and oversees the Physics, Dosimetry, Therapy, Imaging, IT, and Transcription departments. He holds a Bachelor of Science in physics from Notre Dame and a Master of Science in medical physics from Columbia University. Rob has worked in the field of medical physics for 25 years and has worked previously at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Prior to his career in medical physics, Rob was an officer in the United States Navy, where he attained the rank of lieutenant commander. As a naval aviator, he flew Seahawk
helicopters out of Naval Station Mayport and was stationed overseas in Bahrain.

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Gigi Ackerman Schwartz, MBA

Vice President, Operations

Gigi Ackerman Schwartz joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2020 and leads strategic planning initiatives across all departments, directs all aspects of revenue cycle management, and works to develop and maintain relationships with community partners. Gigi holds an MBA from Tulane University. A Jacksonville native, she is involved in several local charitable and civic organizations. She serves as chair of the Art in Public Places Committee for the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville, is a member of the National Young Leadership Cabinet, and is a trustee of the Jewish Community Alliance and Jacksonville Jewish Center. In her free time, Gigi enjoys playing mahjong, exploring new hobbies with friends, and spending time with her husband and two-year-old daughter.

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Baylee Richter, BS

Community Relations Manager

Baylee Richter joined Ackerman Cancer Center in November 2024 and oversees digital campaigns, brand strategy, and community outreach and engagement. With more than eight years of experience in events and marketing, she has led initiatives that strengthen patient engagement, community awareness, and referral growth. Baylee holds a Bachelor of Science in hospitality and tourism management from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, she stays actively involved in the community through her service on the board of the American Lung Association. She also supports the American Cancer Society’s Cowford Ball as a member of the children’s art project committee and contributes to the Jacksonville Chamber’s NEXTUP JAX program, serving on two committees. In her free time, Baylee enjoys spending time with her Australian Shepherd, Cooper, and cheering on the Pittsburgh Steelers.