If you’ve been searching for a natural, non-surgical solution for chronic joint pain, prolotherapy might be the answer you’ve been looking for. This regenerative injection therapy has been around for decades and is gaining popularity as more people seek alternatives to surgery and long-term use of pain medications.
What is Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy, short for "proliferation therapy," is a regenerative injection treatment designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. It involves injecting a mild irritant solution—commonly a dextrose (sugar water) mixture—into ligaments, tendons, or joints that are weak or injured. This controlled inflammation triggers the body to repair and strengthen the damaged tissue.
How Does Prolotherapy Work?
When the dextrose solution is injected into the targeted area, it causes a localized inflammatory response. This signals the body to increase blood flow and send healing cells to the site. Over time, this can lead to the regeneration of collagen and connective tissue, providing improved stability and reduced pain.
What Conditions Can Prolotherapy Help?
Prolotherapy is commonly used to treat a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis (especially in knees, hips, and fingers)
- Chronic back or neck pain
- Sports injuries
- Tendonitis and ligament sprains
- Joint instability and hypermobility
- TMJ dysfunction
- Plantar fasciitis
Benefits of Prolotherapy
- Non-surgical: Avoid the risks and downtime associated with surgery.
- Drug-free pain relief: Reduces the need for chronic use of NSAIDs or opioids.
- Stimulates healing: Encourages your body to regenerate and repair tissue.
- Customizable: Treatment plans can be tailored to your specific needs and goals.
What to Expect During Treatment
A typical prolotherapy session lasts 30–45 minutes. Most patients need a series of treatments spaced several weeks apart, depending on the severity and location of the condition. Some mild soreness may follow each injection, which is a sign the healing process is underway.
While not an instant fix, prolotherapy can provide long-term relief and functional improvement when other therapies have failed.
Is Prolotherapy Right for You?
If you’re dealing with chronic joint pain, ligament laxity, or recurring injuries and are looking for a safe, natural alternative to surgery, prolotherapy might be worth exploring. A thorough physical exam and health history are essential to determine if you’re a good candidate.
Want to Learn More or Schedule a Consultation?
Our clinic specializes in regenerative medicine techniques like prolotherapy to help you get back to doing what you love—pain-free. Contact us today to learn if prolotherapy is right for you.