Prolotherapy
What is Prolotherapy?
The word "prolo" comes from proliferation which is
growth/formation of new tissues. Prolotherapy therefore is the treatment
method in which growth/formation of ligament tissues occur. It is
performed by injected concentrated glucose/dextrose(sugar) solution into
weak ligaments leading to growth of new ligament tissues. This process
occurs when the injected solution causes inflammation and in the
process, increased blood flow and flow of nutrients to the area leading
to stimulation of repair of the tissue. The dextrose/glucose solution
may be mixed with local anesthetics to decrease pain. No steroids are
injected as they tend to decrease the inflammation needed.
What medical conditions are indicated for prolotherpay?
While the list is not exhaustive, prolotherapy is often used in
painful musculoskelatal conditions with weakened ligaments, tendons, etc
and include arthritis, back pain, neck pain,
headache, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, unresolved whiplash injuries,
carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic tendonitis, partially torn tendons,
ligaments and cartilage, degenerated or herniated discs, temporal mandibular
joint (TMJ) dysfunction, Sacro-iliac Joint (SIJ)
dysfunction and sciatica.
How many times will I need the Injections?
This depends on the areas to be injected and the diagnosis. It could
be anything from 4-10 injection sessions at various intervals from 2-6
weeks. This frequency tend to decrease with subsequent injections as
improvement progresses.
What are the side effects?
Most of the side effects are temporary and include soreness, bruises,
and stiffness. If a local anesthetic is added to the glucose/dextrose
solution, there may be brief numbness and tingling. Other complications
will be dependent on areas of injection and include bleeding, infection,
nerve injuries and paralysis (if spinal).
What are the chances of Successful Treatment?
The chances of successful treatment is about 90% once an adequate
diagnosis is made
Do I need someone to drive me to the appointments?
As this involves no sedation. It is not mandatory that someone comes
with you.
Caution?
As the injection works by increased inflammation that promotes
proliferation, medications that reduce inflammation like
anti-inflammatory drugs, caffeine and alcohol may interfere with this
process and should be avoided during the treatment sessions.
Is there Insurance coverage for the procedure?
No insurance coverage at this point in time and the cost
out-of-pocket is about $250 per injection.
Links
|