X-ray therapy: when radiation helps heal

Today I want to talk to you about a topic that often causes confusion among patients: X-ray therapy. Yes, I know, the name sounds complicated. In reality, it's simply the radiotherapy you've probably heard of, named after Wilhelm Röntgen, the discoverer of X-rays.

You may have heard this term from your oncologist. Or perhaps you're looking for information because a family member needs to undergo this treatment. Let's take a look at what it really means and how it works.

What is X-ray therapy?

X-ray therapy is essentially the use of ionizing radiation to fight cancer. Think of it as a beam of very powerful X-rays—similar to those used for an X-ray, but much more focused and targeted.

The principle is fascinating, to be honest. This high-energy radiation hits tumor cells and damages their DNA. What happens? The diseased cells are unable to reproduce and die. It's as if it were a targeted shot at the heart of the tumor.

Moreover, tumor cells have a characteristic that makes them vulnerable: they divide very rapidly. This makes them more sensitive to radiation than healthy cells, which are better at repairing damage.

How is X-ray therapy performed?

There are several ways to administer this therapy. External radiation therapy is the most common: an external machine directs the beams at the tumor with pinpoint precision. It's a bit like having a sniper who hits just the right target.

Then there's internal radiotherapy, also called brachytherapy. Here, small radioactive capsules or needles are inserted directly into or near the tumor. This is more invasive, but extremely effective in certain situations.

Stereotactic radiotherapy, on the other hand, is the Ferrari of radiotherapy treatments. It uses multiple beams of radiation that all intersect on the tumor, sparing surrounding healthy tissue as much as possible. Swiss watchmaker precision.

When is X-ray therapy used?

The indications for this treatment are truly broad. I've seen it used successfully for breast, lung, and prostate cancer, as well as brain tumors, lymphomas, and leukemia.

But here's what I find interesting about my experience: it's not always used alone. We often combine it with chemotherapy or surgery. It's like having a team of specialists working together to defeat the disease.

A patient once told me, “Doctor, it’s like having more weapons against the enemy.” He couldn’t have said it better.

The side effects you need to know about

Yes, there are side effects. I won't hide it from you. Fatigue is the most common—and I'm talking about profound tiredness that doesn't go away with rest. Many patients describe a feeling of "dead battery."

Then there's nausea, loss of appetite, and skin irritation in the treated area. Hair loss depends on the irradiated area—if we treat the brain, yes, hair will fall out. If we treat the foot, obviously not.

What I always tell my patients? Most of these effects are temporary. They gradually disappear after treatment ends. The body has an extraordinary capacity for recovery.

Diagnosis before treatment

Before starting any X-ray therapy, a precise diagnosis is required. Radiation is not something to joke about. Usually, a biopsy is performed to confirm the type of tumor, followed by CT scans, MRIs, and PET scans to pinpoint the exact location of the disease.

The oncology radiologist studies each case down to the smallest detail. He calculates the exact dose, plans the radiation angles, and determines how many sessions are needed. It's a job requiring absolute precision.

How the treatment works

Sessions are usually short—we're talking 10-15 minutes maximum. The longest part is positioning: you must remain still in the exact position established during planning.

The treatment itself isn't painful. You don't feel anything while the radiation works. It's like an X-ray, but longer. Many patients tell me, "Doctor, I thought it was worse."

The entire cycle can last from a few days to several weeks, depending on the case. It's usually done Monday through Friday, with a weekend break to allow healthy tissue to recover.

Results and prospects

The effectiveness of X-ray therapy varies greatly. It depends on the type of tumor, the stage, and the individual patient's response. I've seen tumors disappear completely and others respond only partially.

One thing is certain: it's a powerful weapon against cancer. Techniques have improved dramatically in recent years. Precision has increased, and side effects have decreased.

SmartHallux: Where we can help you

Here at SmartHallux, we specialize in foot and ankle surgery. Dr. Luigi Manzi, who has extensive experience in this field, provides each patient with a personalized treatment plan using the most modern techniques.

If you have orthopedic foot problems that require specialist evaluation, we are here to help you with expertise and cutting-edge technology.

The SmartHallux team treats conditions such as hallux valgus , Morton's neuroma , and other deformities that cause foot pain. Providing comprehensive support throughout the treatment process, SmartHallux can be a winning choice for effective treatment tailored to your needs. Book your specialist consultation with the SmartHallux team now (opens in a new tab).

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