Prolotherapy

 
 

Want to learn more? Book a complimentary discovery call to find out if prolotherapy will be a good treatment option for you.

What is it?

Prolotherapy is a natural treatment for pain that stimulates the body’s intrinsic ability to heal. It strengthens joints that have been damaged by trauma or overuse. 

We inject a dextrose solution into the injured ligaments and tendons. This triggers beneficial inflammation, which gives the body a second chance to heal. The end result is a stronger and more stable joint.

When to consider prolotherapy?

It is beneficial if you have an injury that feels like it just won’t heal or chronic joint pain that hasn’t resolved with more conservative treatments.

Common conditions treated with prolotherapy:

  • Acute or chronic joint pain

  • Osteoarthritis

  • Knee Pain

  • Rotator Cuff Injuries/Tears

  • Sprained Ankles

  • Tennis/Golfer’s Elbow

  • Unstable joints

When to avoid Prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy relies on the body’s natural ability to heal. You need to be in a healthy state to promote this healing. It is not recommended to get prolotherapy if you have any of the following conditions: 

  • Fibromyalgia

  • Chronic myofascial pain syndromes

  • Complete Rotator Cuff Tears

  • Active cancer

  • Autoimmune condition 

In addition, prolotherapy is also not recommended if you are taking drugs that decrease immune system function such as systemic corticosteroids or immunosuppressants.

What to expect?

The prolotherapy session will involve a series of injections. The location and number of injections required is determined through a targeted physical exam.

The goal is long-term resolution of pain. 

A standard treatment plan is 3-5 sessions with 2-3 weeks between each session. Increased pain following treatment is common but should decrease in 48 hours and not prevent you from doing normal activities of daily living. 

FAQs

How is it different from cortisone injections?

Cortisone injections can result in short-term pain relief, but treatment must be continued every 6-12 months to maintain relief. Prolotherapy can result in long-term pain relief, as the injections work to heal the underlying problem maintenance therapy should not be required.

Does it matter how long ago the injury happened?

No, as long as you are in a state of good health your body has the ability to heal.