Prolotherapy

What is Prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy, also known as regenerative injection therapy, is a treatment designed to relieve pain and promote healing in injured or weakened joints, ligaments, and tendons. This procedure involves injecting a solution, typically containing dextrose, into the affected area to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. In some cases, ozone gas can be added to augment treatment.

How Does Prolotherapy Work?

1. Stimulation of Healing: The injection of the solution causes a mild inflammatory response in the targeted area, which triggers the body's natural healing mechanisms.

2. Tissue Repair: This process encourages the growth of new, healthy tissue and strengthens the existing structures.

3. Pain Reduction: As the tissues heal and strengthen, pain is reduced, and joint stability is improved.

Conditions Treated with Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy can be used to treat a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Chronic joint pain

• Osteoarthritis

• Tendonitis

• Ligament injuries

• Back pain

• Neck pain

• Sports injuries

• Overuse injuries

The Prolotherapy Procedure

1. Preparation: The area to be treated is cleansed, and a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort.

2. Injection: The prolotherapy solution is injected into the targeted area using a fine needle. Multiple injections may be necessary depending on the size and severity of the injury. If ozone is used, this will be injected into the tissue after the solution. 

3. Post-Injection Care: Patients may experience mild discomfort or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves within a few days. Applying ice and taking over-the-counter pain relievers (acetaminophen) can help manage these symptoms. Ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam and other anti-inflammatories may stifle the benefits of prolotherapy, so avoid these if possible.

Benefits of Prolotherapy

• Non-Surgical: A minimally invasive alternative to surgery.

• Natural Healing: Utilizes the body’s own healing mechanisms.

• Pain Relief: Provides long-term pain relief for chronic conditions.

• Improved Function: Enhances joint stability and function.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

As with any medical procedure, prolotherapy carries potential risks and side effects, including:

• Pain or discomfort at the injection site

• Swelling or bruising

• Infection (rare)

• Allergic reaction to the solution (rare)

• Temporary increase in pain

Most side effects are mild and resolve on their own. Serious complications are rare but should be promptly reported to your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many treatments will I need? The number of treatments varies based on the severity of the condition and individual response. Typically, 3 to 6 sessions are needed, spaced a few weeks apart.

2. Is prolotherapy painful? Some discomfort is expected during and after the injections, but this is usually mild and temporary.

3. How soon will I see results? Many patients begin to notice improvement after the first few treatments, with continued progress over several weeks or months.

Can I resume normal activities after the procedure? Light activities can be resumed shortly after treatment, but strenuous activities should be avoided for a few days. Your physician will provide specific guidelines based on your condition.