Arthritis

Prolotherapy, also referred to as proliferation therapy, is a regenerative treatment option that uses injections of a solution into joints or other parts of the body to alleviate pain and inflammation. The solution usually comprises a mixture of dextrose, saline, and anesthetic and is intended to activate the body’s natural healing process. Prolotherapy is occasionally used to treat conditions such as osteoarthritis, tendinitis, and chronic lower back pain.

Musculoskeletal pain is often associated with damage, laxity, or weakening of connective tissue, which normally controls joint movement and provides support for activities such as standing, sitting, and movement of the limbs. These tissues are commonly damaged by trauma and the initial healing response may not be sufficient to fully repair the structures. Anti-inflammatory medications, which are often taken after an injury, can also inhibit the healing process and result in limited connective tissue healing. Hormonal changes and deficiencies, such as those that occur during pregnancy, hypothyroidism, menopause, or andropause (male hormone deficiency associated with aging) can negatively impact these tissues as well. Some individuals may also be predisposed to connective tissue weakness due to genetic variations, such as weaker collagen or more elastic ligaments, or other as-yet-undiscovered causes. The result of reduced structural stability is a chronic strain of the remaining ligament and tendon fibers.

Prolotherapy can be used to strengthen various structures such as ligaments, tendons, and joints throughout the body, and therefore, it is likely that patients with pain in the neck, mid-back, or low back will respond well to treatment. Other structures that may respond well to treatment include the hip, knee, ankle, toe, shoulder, elbow, wrist, finger, and thumb often resulting in reduced pain. 

Prolotherapy has several potential benefits, including:

Reducing Pain: Prolotherapy can reduce pain by promoting healing and repair of the joint or tissue. The injected solution stimulates the body’s natural healing process, which can lead to a reduction in pain and inflammation.

Improving Function and Ability to Perform Daily Activities Without Pain: As pain is reduced, patients may have an improved ability to perform daily activities without pain showing an overall improvement in quality of life and a greater ability to participate in work, leisure, and other activities.

Increasing Strength in Injected Areas: Prolotherapy can also lead to an increase in strength in the injected areas. The treatment stimulates the growth of new collagen, which is a key component of tendons, ligaments, and cartilage. This can lead to stronger and more resilient joints and tissues, which can help prevent future injury.

Reducing Stiffness: Prolotherapy can also help to reduce stiffness, particularly in the lower back or neck. The treatment promotes the growth of new collagen and the repair of damaged tissue, which can lead to greater flexibility and range of motion in the affected area. This can also help to reduce the risk of future injury.