Prolotherapy FAQ’s

Prolotherapy is a medical treatment where typically dextrose (a type of sugar), is injected into damaged ligaments, tendons, or joints to stimulate healing. The goal is to promote tissue regeneration, reduce pain, and improve function.

Prolotherapy works by creating a mild irritation at the injection site, which triggers the body’s natural healing response. The body sends nutrients and growth factors to the area, which helps to rebuild and strengthen weakened or injured tissues, such as ligaments and tendons.

• Prolotherapy is used for a variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
• Chronic joint pain (e.g., knee, shoulder, and hip pain)
• Tendon and ligament injuries (e.g., tennis elbow, rotator cuff injuries, plantar fasciitis)
• Chronic low back pain
• Osteoarthritis (in some cases)
• Sports injuries (e.g., sprains, strains)

Prolotherapy is generally considered safe when performed by a trained healthcare professional. Since the injections use a sugar-based solution, the risk of allergic reactions or other complications is minimal. However, like any medical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, bleeding, or temporary increased pain at the injection site. It’s important to discuss any medical conditions with your provider before undergoing treatment.

Recovery time can vary depending on the condition being treated and the individual. Many people experience soreness at the injection site for a few days after treatment. Most patients can return to normal activities within 24-48 hours, though heavy exercise and strenuous activities should be avoided for a week or so. Your doctor will provide specific guidance based on your treatment plan.

The number of sessions required varies based on the severity of the injury or condition. Some patients may experience improvement after just one or two treatments, while others may require 3-6 sessions spaced a few weeks apart. Your provider will create a treatment plan tailored to your needs.

The effectiveness of prolotherapy can vary from person to person. Many patients report significant pain relief and improved function after a series of treatments. It is often considered a last resort after other treatments like physical therapy, medications, or corticosteroid injections have not been effective. Some studies have shown positive outcomes, particularly for conditions involving chronic pain or joint instability.

Both prolotherapy and PRP therapy are regenerative treatments aimed at healing damaged tissues, but they differ in their approach:

• Prolotherapy uses an irritant solution (often dextrose) to stimulate healing.

• PRP therapy involves extracting and concentrating a patient’s own platelets from their blood, which are then injected into the affected area to promote healing.

PRP is considered more advanced because it uses the body’s own growth factors, but prolotherapy is typically less expensive and may be effective for certain conditions.

While prolotherapy is generally safe, some potential side effects include:

• Mild pain or swelling at the injection site

• Temporary increase in pain following the injection (known as a “flare-up”)

• Bruising or redness

• In rare cases, infection or nerve injury

Most side effects are temporary and resolve on their own, but you should contact your provider if you experience unusual symptoms.

Yes, prolotherapy can often be combined with other treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or pain management strategies, to enhance results. It’s important to coordinate with your healthcare provider to ensure the best treatment plan for your condition.

Prolotherapy may offer relief for some patients with osteoarthritis, particularly in the early to moderate stages. It can help strengthen the ligaments and tendons surrounding the joint, providing better stability and reducing pain. However, for more advanced osteoarthritis, other treatments (like joint replacement or PRP therapy) may be more effective.

Yes, prolotherapy can be effective for treating chronic lower back pain, especially if the pain is related to ligament or tendon instability, or conditions like sacroiliac joint dysfunction. It is less likely to help with issues like disc degeneration, but for soft tissue-related pain, it can provide significant relief.

Some people experience immediate pain relief after prolotherapy, but it’s more common for patients to see gradual improvement over a few weeks or months. It can take time for the body to heal the treated tissues fully, and the effects may continue to improve even after the final session.

No, prolotherapy is not just for athletes. It can be beneficial for anyone experiencing chronic pain or injuries, regardless of their level of physical activity. Whether you’re dealing with a workplace injury, an accident, or age-related wear and tear, prolotherapy can be an option for managing pain and improving mobility.