Prolotherapy

Also known as a regenerative joint injection, prolotherapy, is a non-surgical procedure in which a dextrose solution is injected into affected joints and ligaments to stimulate the body’s natural healing abilities. The intentional inflammatory response caused by the solution “jump starts” the healing process, while also helping strengthen ligaments, enhance cartilage and overall increase the stability of joints.

Call the Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine at 504.988.8476 to see if this procedure is right for you.

Conditions treated can include:

Back pain
Hip, knee or shoulder pain
Osteoarthritis
Fibromyalgia
Plantar fasciitis
Sciatica
Sports injuries
Tendinitis
Tension headaches
Degenerative disc disease
Arthritis

Prolotherapy is permanent treatment, and it relies on the body repairing itself to reduce pain. Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications only provide temporary relief. Similarly, surgical options do not always work to fully stabilize a joint.

What to expect

Prolotherapy is generally administered at intervals of three to four weeks. The treatment involves the injection of a mixture containing an irritant and a local anesthetic. A total of three to four treatments is typical.

During or before an assessment, your doctor will likely examine X-rays or other imaging results. The images will help him or her decide if the procedure is feasible, given the location and severity of the injury. Any anti-inflammatory medications should be discontinued two-to-three days before the procedure, as it could prevent the procedure from working.

On the day of the prolotherapy, you should eat well, preferably a protein-rich meal.

During the procedure, your doctor will prepare your skin with rubbing alcohol or another sterilizing solution. In some cases, if you are in considerable pain or discomfort, additional sedation may be used.

Once prepared, your doctor will use a needle to deliver the solution to several different points around the target area in the back or joint. The number of injections may vary based on the area or joint affected.