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Dr Richard Shaffer

Specialist in radiotherapy for non-cancer conditions in Central London, Nottingham, Birmingham, Bristol and Newmarket

BSc MBBS MRCP FRCR
GMC: 4552635
4.9137 reviewsReview
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Expert in:
Radiotherapy
Osteoarthritis
Dupuytren’s contracture
Keloid scars
Ledderhose disease
Tendonitis
Bursitis
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Professional statement

Dr Richard Shaffer is a consultant clinical oncologist at Icon Cancer Centre London (Wimbledon) and leading radiotherapy specialist and clinical oncologist based in London and Surrey. He has a particular interest in using radiotherapy to treat benign (non-cancerous) conditions, including:


  • Dupuytren’s disease
  • Ledderhose disease (plantar fibromatosis)
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Keloid scarring
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Tendinopathy
  • Bursitis


He was the first doctor in the UK to treat patients with radiotherapy for:

  1. Osteoarthritis (hand, hip, knee, foot, elbow and shoulder)
  2. Tendinopathy (tennis elbow, golfer’s elbow, patellar tendonitis, and rotator cuff syndrome)
  3. Bursitis, including trochanteric bursitis, also known as greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS)


Dr Shaffer uses the latest radiotherapy technology to provide safe, effective care for these conditions.


He is co-author of the Royal College of Radiologists guidelines on radiotherapy for benign conditions, and led the English-language version of the most recent German guidelines. He also serves on the American Radium Society Benign Radiotherapy Working Group and co-authored the first American case series on radiotherapy for osteoarthritis.


Dr Shaffer is President of the International Organisation for Radiotherapy for Benign Conditions. He is also the founder and CEO of RT-ABC, a global education company training clinicians in radiotherapy for benign disease.


He previously worked as an NHS Consultant in Clinical Oncology in Guildford for 10 years before moving into full-time private practice.

Clinics

Cromwell Hospital
  • Cromwell Hospital profile image

    Cromwell Hospital

    164-178 Cromwell Rd, London SW5 0TU, UK, Central London

    Medical insurances accepted

    I'm paying for myself
    Bupa
    AVIVA
    Cigna
    WPA
    Simply Health
    Allianz
    CS Healthcare

Credentials

Professional experience

  • 28 years of experience
  • Consultant Clinical Oncologist, BUPA Cromwell Hospital (present)
  • Consultant Clinical Oncologist, GenesisCare, Guildford (present)
  • Consultant Clinical Oncologist, GenesisCare, The Park Centre for Oncology, Nottingham (present)
  • Specialist Advisor NICE (National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence) (2016)
  • Dr Shaffer currently treats patients at 14 different centres across the UK. 
View more

Subspecialties

  • Hip bursitis (trochanteric bursitis)
  • Patellar tendonitis (jumpers knee)
  • Tennis elbow
  • Golfers elbow
  • Achilles tendonitis
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Knee osteoarthritis
  • Foot & ankle osteoarthritis
  • Finger osteoarthritis
  • Wrist osteoarthritis
  • Thumb osteoarthritis
  • Dupuytrens contracture
  • Elbow osteoarthritis
  • Heterotopic ossification
  • Myositis ossificans
  • Greater trochanteric pain syndrome (GTPS)
  • Bursitis
  • Shoulder tendon injuries and strains
  • Rotator cuff tendinopathy
  • Shoulder osteoarthritis
  • Biceps tendinopathy
  • Acromio-clavicular (AC) joint osteoarthritis
  • Ledderhose disease (plantar fibromatosis)
  • Hallux rigidus (big toe osteoarthritis)
  • Midfoot osteoarthritis
  • Foot joint arthritis
  • Hip osteoarthritis
  • Ischial bursitis
  • Keloid scars
View more

Professional memberships

  • Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists, Clinical Oncology
  • Member of Royal College of Physicians
  • European Society for Therapeutic Radiation Oncology (ESTRO)
View more

Education

  • FRCR Royal College of Radiologists (2006)
  • MRCP Royal College of Physicians (London) (2002)
  • MB BS University College London Hospital (1998)
  • BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science, University of Manchester (1995)
View more

Teaching posts

  • Principal Lecturer in Radiotherapy Academy for Benign Conditions courses

Positions in organisations

  • President of International Organisation for Radiotherapy for Benign Conditions (iorbc.com)
  • Medical Director for Xstrahl Ltd
  • CEO of Radiotherapy Academy for Benign Conditions
  • Medical Director for Theralife Clinics
View more

Publications and conferences

  • View Dr Shaffer's publications on ResearchGate.

Languages spoken

  • English
Registration number: 4552635

Content

Photos

    • Image gallery

Health content

All about keloid scars

Video

All about keloid scars

In this podcast interview, revered radiotherapy specialist and clinical oncologist, Dr Ric...

hand

Article

Early radiotherapy in Dupuytren’s disease: halting fibrosis before contracture

While surgery is widely recognised for treating later stages of Dupuytren’s disease, early...

Webinar: Low-Dose Radiotherapy for Osteoarthritis

Video

Webinar: Low-Dose Radiotherapy for Osteoarthritis

Dr Richard Shaffer discusses what low-dose radiotherapy is, how it can help with painful o...

radiotherapy

Article

How can radiotherapy be a treatment for osteoarthritis?

For those struggling with pain from osteoarthritis, radiotherapy can be a powerful – yet n...

Low-Dose Radiation

Video

Low-Dose Radiation

Dr Richard Shaffer discusses what low-dose radiotherapy is, how it can help with osteoarth...

An introduction to Dr Richard Shaffer

Video

An introduction to Dr Richard Shaffer

<p>Esteemed consultant radiotherapy specialist and consultant oncologist Dr Richard Shaffe...

keloids

Article

Optimising post-surgical radiotherapy for keloid prevention: timing, dose, and technique

Keloid scars can be distressing, uncomfortable and difficult to treat. For individuals pro...

What is plantar fasciitis and how is it treated? Online interview

Video

What is plantar fasciitis and how is it treated? Online interview

In this informative online interview, revered London-based radiotherapy therapist and clin...

knees

Article

Why does my knee hurt? Key signs of osteoarthritis and what they mean

Knee pain is extremely common, particularly as we get older. Many people worry about what ...

How radiotherapy can also help benign conditions - Online Interview

Video

How radiotherapy can also help benign conditions - Online Interview

Typically associated with more serious condition, radiotherapy can also be effective when ...

Shoulder tendonitis

Article

How to get rid of shoulder tendonitis pain

On hand to tell us how to best prevent shoulder tendonitis is leading radiotherapy special...

Radiotherapy Q&As

Video

Radiotherapy Q&As

A talk by Dr Richard Shaffer followed by Questions and Answers with Anna Schurer, BDS. A l...

Low dose radiotherapy for hip osteoarthritis

Article

Low dose radiotherapy for hip osteoarthritis

Hip osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease where the cartilage in the hip joint br...

Radiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis

Article

Radiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis

Radiotherapy for knee osteoarthritis involves low-dose radiation targeting the knee joint,...

Low dose radiotherapy for tennis elbow: how does it work?

Article

Low dose radiotherapy for tennis elbow: how does it work?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is a painful condition involving inflammation of t...

Radiotherapy for trochanteric bursitis

Article

Radiotherapy for trochanteric bursitis

Trochanteric bursitis is inflammation of the bursa near the outer hip, causing pain, tende...

Radiotherapy for Achilles tendinopathy: everything you need to know

Article

Radiotherapy for Achilles tendinopathy: everything you need to know

You may often think of radiotherapy as treatment traditionally used for cancer, but did yo...

Base of thumb osteoarthritis: Your guide

Article

Base of thumb osteoarthritis: Your guide

We hear expert insight from esteemed consultant radiotherapy specialist Dr Richard Shaffer...

Keloid scars: What are my treatment options?

Article

Keloid scars: What are my treatment options?

Keloid scars can go deep into the skin, causing some people to feel self-conscious and sea...

Psoriasis, keloid scarring, arthritis and many more: Could radiotherapy be the answer?

Article

Psoriasis, keloid scarring, arthritis and many more: Could radiotherapy be the answer?

Radiotherapy, traditionally used to treat cancer, can also be beneficial to patients with ...

Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s contracture

Article

Radiotherapy for Dupuytren’s contracture

Did you know, approximately 1 in 6 men over the age of 65 in the UK have Dupuytren's contr...

Other information

http://www.dupuytrensuk.com
https://jointpainpractice.co.uk/
https://theralifeclinics.co.uk/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Shaffer+R&cauthor_id=20949587
Profile on Linkedin
Profile on Youtube

Reviews

All reviews are from real patients and have been verified by our Customer Service department to ensure they meet our guidelines. Rules of the service

137 reviews

4.9

Review this doctor
  • Would you recommend this doctor?
  • Treatment of the doctor
  • Treatment of the staff
  • Waiting time
  • Condition of facilities
  • Richard is very personable, helpful and honest. It's the 4th time I've used his services and recommend him highly.
    5 October 2026

    M.J.

    Verified patient
  • Dr Shaffer was exceptionally professional throughout my consultation. He addressed all my concerns, answered my questions thoroughly and thought carefully about advising me on next steps. Highly recommended.
    21 July 2026

    S.I.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I’m delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation. Hearing that it made a positive difference means a great deal to the whole team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. With warm regards, Dr Richard Shaffer
  • Dr Shaffer has given me excellent advice and treatment plan in a very professional but friendly manner in a great location. I am extremely grateful for the improvement in my pain levels and hand function following the first course of low dose radiotherapy treatment and look forward to the next phase with renewed hope. I cannot recommend Dr Shaffer and his team highly enough. Many thanks.
    21 July 2026

    S.P.

    Verified patient
  • Very positive experience. I have already recommended a friend.
    9 June 2026

    S.B.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I’m delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that it made a positive difference means a great deal to the whole team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist radiotherapy care for people living with benign conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. With kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer
  • I initially approached Dr Shaffer with concerns of developing arthrofibrosis following an upcoming surgery. When consulting with Dr Shaffer, he outlined two potential treatment paths for me, explaining the science behind each as well as the associated risks. He then brought my case to his international colleagues to best inform which of the treatment options was best. My treatment was a success and the team at Genesis Care are delightful. I highly recommend Dr Shaffer’s services!
    4 June 2026

    L.S.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience. I’m delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that it made a positive difference means a great deal to the whole team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist radiotherapy care for people living with benign conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. With kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer
  • I initially had a consultation with Dr Shaffer for my Dupuytren's Disease at the Guildford Clinic and chose Milton Keynes to have my left hand treated as could stay with family. My little finger had started to contract and I could not hold anything in my left hand without suffering with pain in my palm. The treatment has halted progression and I am pain free . I have lost some reach across my hand. I knew there was a slight chance that it might not work for me but I am happy with the results.
    2 June 2026

    V.T.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Dupuytren's UK. We're delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that our approach made a positive difference means a great deal to our entire team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. Kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer www.dupuytrensuk.com
  • I received radiotherapy treatment for Ledderhose Disease on both feet at the Elstree clinic. It was easy to locate and there was parking on site. The clinic was clean and relaxing and the staff were so helpful. before my treatment I felt like I was walking on cobblestones and it was having a detrimental impact on my hip and knees, just a few months after treatment I danced at my nephews wedding. I can now enjoy walks in the countryside pain free, such a positive impact on my life.
    2 June 2026

    V.T.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Dupuytren's UK. We're delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that our approach made a positive difference means a great deal to our entire team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. Kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer www.dupuytrensuk.com
  • I had bilateral hand radiotherapy for long standing dupytrens contractures, the treatment was quick and painless. 6 years on ,my right hand remains in remission whilst my left has required further surgery, still a good outcome for me, recommended if you can afford it.
    28 May 2026

    B.C.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Dupuytren's UK. We're delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that our approach made a positive difference means a great deal to our entire team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. Kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer www.dupuytrensuk.com
  • I suffered with Duputrens disease for quite a few years and did seek advice rom other doctors who told me that my condition wasn't really bad for treatment, even though i considered it was as my hand hurt,so after contacting Genesis in Milton Keynes I was seen by Doctor Shaffer within a week or so and then I had my treatment at which very successful my nodules in my hand have virtualy gone, no pain, and my hand is straight. Excellent treatment from Dr Shaffer & all his staff, nurces.
    28 February 2026

    P.D.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Dupuytren's UK. We're delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and radiotherapy treatment. Hearing that our approach made a positive difference means a great deal to our entire team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. Kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer www.dupuytrensuk.com
  • Dr Schaffer provided excellent assessment and explanations of my condition. He showed me how to track the progression of my condition. He didn’t rush me to undertake radiotherapy treatment as not advisable yet. I’m grateful for his thorough examination and honest judgement.
    22 February 2026

    P.M.

    Verified patient
    Doctor's response -
    Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with Dupuytren's UK. We're delighted to know that you were happy with your consultation and advice. Hearing that our approach made a positive difference means a great deal to our entire team. Our goal is to provide compassionate, specialist care for people living with Dupuytren's disease and related conditions, combining medical expertise with clear communication and empathy at every stage. Your feedback encourages us to continue delivering the highest standard of care to each patient we meet. Kind Regards, Dr Richard Shaffer www.dupuytrensuk.com

Treatments

The doctor is expert in

Bursitis

Dupuytren’s contracture

Keloid scars

Ledderhose disease

Osteoarthritis

Radiotherapy

Tendonitis

The doctor also specialises in:

Ankle tendonitis

Baker's cyst

Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

Hand arthritis

Heel spur

Knee arthritis

Knee osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the ankle

Osteoarthritis of the elbow

Osteoarthritis of the hip

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dr Richard Shaffer's specialty?

Dr Richard Shaffer is a specialist in Clinical Oncology, with extensive experience in assessing and treating patients within this field.

Which conditions and treatments does Dr Richard Shaffer specialise in?

Dr Richard Shaffer is a Clinical Oncologist who provides assessment and treatment for Radiotherapy, Osteoarthritis, Dupuytren’s contracture, Keloid scars, Ledderhose disease, Tendonitis, Bursitis, Ankle tendonitis, Baker's cyst, Epicondylitis (tennis elbow), Hand arthritis, Heel spur, Knee arthritis, Knee osteoarthritis, Osteoarthritis of the ankle, Osteoarthritis of the elbow, Osteoarthritis of the hip, Patellar tendonitis (jumper's knee), Plantar fasciitis, Rhizarthrosis, Rotator cuff injury, Shoulder osteoarthritis, Shoulder tendonitis and Thumb arthritis. During your consultation, you will be informed of the most suitable options following a personalised evaluation.

How many years of experience does Dr Richard Shaffer have?

Dr Richard Shaffer has 28 years of professional experience as a specialist in Clinical Oncology, providing specialist assessment and treatment in this medical field.

What do patients say about Dr Richard Shaffer?

Patients give a rating of 4.9 out of 5 to Dr Richard Shaffer, a score considered excellent. This average is based on 137 verified patient reviews, reflecting the experience of those who have attended an appointment.

Are Dr Richard Shaffer's reviews verified?

Yes. All Dr Richard Shaffer's reviews come from verified patients who have attended either an in-person or an e-Consultation appointment. We use a system that ensures authenticity and prevents fake reviews. Some profiles may also display reviews from other platforms, which follow their own verification policies, with the source always clearly indicated.

Where does Dr Richard Shaffer practise?

Dr Richard Shaffer practices in the following locations:

  • Central London at 164-178 Cromwell Rd, London SW5 0TU, UK
  • Nottingham at The Park Centre for Oncology Sherwood Lodge Drive Burntstump Country Park, Nottingham NG5 8RX, UK
  • Birmingham at Little Aston Hall Dr, Little Aston, Sutton Coldfield B74 3BF, UK
  • Bristol at 300 Park Ave, Aztec W, Bristol BS32 4SY, UK
  • Newmarket at The Oaks, Fordham Rd, Newmarket CB8 7XN, UK
  • Chelmsford at Springfield Cancer Centre, Lawn Ln, Springfield, Chelmsford CM1 7GU, UK
  • Elstree at Unit 710, Centennial Park, Elstree, Borehamwood WD6 3SY, UK
  • Maidstone at 17 Kings Hill Ave, Kings Hill, West Malling ME19 4UA, UK
  • Southampton at Spire Hospital, Chalybeate Cl, Southampton SO16 6UY, UK
  • Windsor at 69 Alma Rd, Windsor SL4 3HD, UK
  • East London at The Pavilion, Sunrise Pkwy, Linford Wood, East MK14 6LS, UK
  • Oxford at Sandy Ln W, Peter's Way, Littlemore, Oxford OX4 6LB, UK
  • Havant at Bartons Rd, Havant PO9 5NA, UK
  • Guildford at Rosalind Franklin Cl, Guildford GU2 7AW, UK
  • South London at 49 Parkside

In-person consultations are available at these locations as a Clinical Oncology.

How can I book an appointment with Dr Richard Shaffer?

You can book an appointment with Dr Richard Shaffer directly from this page by selecting the time that suits you best. Alternatively, you can call the phone number shown if you prefer personalised assistance.

Does Dr Richard Shaffer see NHS patients?

Many specialists featured on Top Doctors also hold NHS positions. However, appointments arranged for Dr Richard Shaffer through this platform are private, either self-pay or covered by private medical insurance.

Does Dr Richard Shaffer offer private appointments?

Yes, Dr Richard Shaffer offers private appointments for patients seeking flexible and direct access to a specialist in Clinical Oncology.

Does Dr Richard Shaffer offer online consultations?

At the moment, Dr Richard Shaffer does not offer online consultations. You can book an in-person appointment from this page or call +44 02045349246. When calling, please mention that you are a Top Doctors patient.

Does Dr Richard Shaffer accept insurance?

Dr Richard Shaffer works with the following private medical insurance providers: Bupa, AVIVA, Cigna, WPA, Simply Health, Allianz, CS Healthcare, Vitality, The Exeter Friendly, Pru Health, Groupama, April, Freedom, National Assurance, General Medical, Saga, Healix, Legal & General Insurance, Health-online, Benenden Health , Alliance Health Group, Police Mutual, Aetna, Tricare, Asia Medical Assistance, AIG, Health Now, Humanis, International SOS, Standard Life and Bupa Global. If your insurer is not listed, you may contact the practice directly to confirm your coverage.

What is Dr Richard Shaffer's availability?

Dr Richard Shaffer's availability depends on the appointment slots open at any given time. On this page, you can check current availability, and if no slots are shown, you can request an appointment or contact the practice directly.

What payment methods does Dr Richard Shaffer offer?

You can pay for your consultation with Dr Richard Shaffer using the following methods: Self-paying or Prepaid.

What languages does Dr Richard Shaffer speak?

Dr Richard Shaffer is a Clinical Oncologist who offers consultations in English.

How is Dr Richard Shaffer selected to appear on this platform?

All doctors listed on Top Doctors, including Dr Richard Shaffer, undergo our rigorous selection process. Only one in five specialists meets the required standards to be included.
Discover Top Doctors' rigorous medical selection process.
The doctor, or where applicable the hospital or medical centre in which the doctor provides services, undertakes to keep the information relating to the prices of services published on their profile on the Top Doctors platform up to date at all times, ensuring that such prices correspond to those effectively charged to patients. In the event of any discrepancy between the published price and the price ultimately charged to the patient, the doctor and/or the relevant hospital or medical centre shall be solely liable towards the patient and towards Top Doctors for any claim or financial difference arising therefrom.

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Cromwell Hospital164-178 Cromwell Rd, London SW5 0TU, UK, Central London
Payment methodPrepaid
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