Prolotherapy - Pain Management
What is it?
Prolotherapy is a simple, natural technique that stimulates the body to repair the painful area when the natural healing process needs a little assistance.
How it works
Prolotherapy works by exactly the same process that the human body naturally uses to stimulate the body's healing system, a process called inflammation.
The technique involves the injection of a proliferant -- a mild irritant solution --(dextrose, vitamin B 12, procaine) that causes an inflammatory response which "turns on" the healing process.
The growth of new ligament and tendon tissue is then stimulated.
The ligaments and tendons produced after Prolotherapy appear much the same as normal tissues, except that they are thicker, stronger, and contain fibers of varying thickness, testifying to the new and ongoing creation of tissue.
The ligament and tendon tissue which forms as a result of Prolotherapy is thicker and stronger than normal tissue, up to 40% stronger!
Prolotherapy is helpful for what conditions:
The treatment is useful for many different types of musculoskeletal pain, including arthritis, back pain, neck pain, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, unresolved whiplash injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, chronic tendonitis, partially torn tendons, ligaments and cartilage, degenerated or herniated discs, TMJ and sciatica.
How long will it take to complete a course of treatments?
The response to treatment varies from individual to individual, and depends upon one's healing ability. Some people may only need a few treatments while others may need 10 or more. The average number is 4-6.
I've heard of cortisone injections; is this the same thing?
We do not use cortisone with any of our patients. Long term studies have shown that cortisone injections actually weaken tissue, Prolotherapy solutions, called proliferants, cause the ligaments and tendons to be strengthened .
Is Prolotherapy safe?
Prolotherapy is an extremely safe procedure. The risks are far less than taking aspirin or motrin for a lifetime to temporarily alleviate chronic pain.
There is, of course, at least a slight risk involved in any medical procedure.
In Prolotherapy, the risks and side effects will vary depending on the area being treated, and the doctor will discuss these possibilities fully.
Will my insurance cover this?
That depends on the coverage your insurance provides. Most insurance companies will cover part of your Prolotherapy treatment .
How much does it cost?
Each session is $100.00.
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