Radiation treatments, meant to stop cancer cell growth, also tend to interfere with other healthy and rapid cell growth. Because of the action of radiation, blood-forming cells in the bone marrow may be adversely affected during active treatments. Areas of the bone not actively growing are less affected than areas of growth and regeneration. Once treatment stops, the normal, healthy cell growth should restart, but while treatment is active, side effects are possible.
Bone Shortening
One side effect of radiation treatments on bones is that of stopping active bone growth. If the radiology is prolonged, a shortening of the bone at the point of growth may result, according to the Health Physics Society website. Areas of bone not involved in active growth at the time of radiology are less likely to be adversely affected.
Osteoradionecrosis of the Jaw
Osteoradionecrosis of the jaw is a possible side effect of radiation treatment. This jaw bone disease tends to occur after a tooth is pulled or infected. According to the American Cancer Society website, osteoradionecrosis is difficult to treat. Pain in your jaw is the main symptom, but the jaw bone can be so affected it may break. If broken, the jaw bone may have to be repaired surgically.
Bone Cartilage Degeneration
Radiation treatments can have side effects on cartilage plates, resulting in swelling and degeneration. The Health Physics Society suggests any growth area where there is cell regeneration like at knee joints and cartilage plates will most likely have degenerative side effects from radiation.
