By Dr. Michael Henry, ND
Prolotherapy is a non-surgical treatment that stimulates a cascade of healing responses to strengthen ligaments, tendons, and joints. If you're considering Prolo, or have been recommended this treatment, understanding what to expect during your sessions can help ease any concerns and ensure a smooth experience.
What to Expect with Prolotherapy
1. Consultation and Evaluation:
Prolotherapy treatment starts with a thorough evaluation by a qualified practitioner trained in Prolo, such as a Naturopathic Doctor or Medical Doctor working in pain management or as Sports Medicine Doctor. During this initial appointment, your practitioner will assess your medical history, current condition, and treatment goals. They should also perform a physical examination and possibly order imaging tests to get a clear picture of your condition. In some cases, in house ultrasound imaging can provide important information on the degree and type of injury.
2. Discussion of Treatment Plan:
Based on the evaluation, your healthcare provider will discuss whether Prolo is a suitable option for you. If Prolo is deemed appropriate, they will explain the treatment plan, including the number of sessions required and the expected outcomes. If you are only given one option for treatment, and are told that rest, or medications, or Prolo, or surgery, or any other treatment is your ONLY option, often a second opinion is recommended.
3. Injection Sessions:
Prolotherapy sessions involve the injection of a solution directly into the affected ligaments, tendons, or joints. The solution typically contains a mixture of dextrose (a form of sugar), local anesthetics, and sometimes other substances. These injections trigger a localized inflammatory response, which, in turn, stimulates the body's healing processes.
4. Location of Injections:
The specific location of injections depends on your condition. Common areas treated with Prolotherapy include the knees, shoulders, hips, and spine. Your healthcare provider will target the areas that require strengthening and repair.
5. Injection Procedure:
Prolotherapy injections are typically done in a clinical setting, such as a doctor's office. You may be asked to lie down or sit, depending on the location of the injections. The procedure itself is relatively quick and involves using a thin needle to administer the solution. It is recommended that your treatment be performed under ultrasound guidance to maximize the accuracy of treatment and get the best possible results from every treatment session. Most patients experience minimal discomfort during the injections, and some may receive a local anesthetic to further reduce any potential pain.
6. Number of Sessions:
Prolotherapy is often administered in a series of sessions, usually spaced 3-5 weeks apart. The number of sessions required can vary depending on the severity of your condition and your body's response to treatment. The more severe the injury, and the longer you’ve had the injury/pain, typically results in more treatment sessions required. Your healthcare provider will create a personalized treatment plan that outlines the frequency and duration of your Prolo sessions.
7. Post-Treatment Care:
After each session, you will be given a set of specific post-treatment care instructions. These instructions may include avoiding strenuous activities for a period, applying heat to the treated area, and, after a certain period of time, a recovery program that includes strengthening and stressing the treated tissues is implemented.
8. Monitoring Progress:
Throughout the Prolo process, your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. They will assess your response to the injections and ensure that you are on track to achieve your treatment goals.
Demystifying the Prolotherapy process can help you approach your treatment with confidence and a clear understanding of what to expect.
By working closely with a practitioner well versed in providing a personalized Prolo program, you can begin the rehabilitation needed to strengthen your ligaments, tendons, and joints, and ultimately improve the quality of life you experience going forward.