How does Prolotherapy treatment work?
There are several theories about how it works in the body. The potential mechanisms may include the following:
- The injection alters the fluid pressure and causes cell rupture in the affected area, leading to the healing process.
- The injection attracts immune cells and inflammatory chemicals to the area.
- The injection causes scarring at the site of collagen breakdown.
- The injection irritates the cells in a confined area by dehydrating them.
It is said that this process induces inflammation and stimulates the body to heal, and people report that it relieves pain.
Prolotherapy is helpful in conditions such as tendon injuries, finger and knee joint inflammation, and ligament problems that cause lower back pain.
What is the treatment period for Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy treatment typically requires multiple injections at the site of injury or weakness to be effective. A patient can expect to receive between 4 to 15 injections in a single session, with several sessions occurring over the course of 3 to 6 months.
The injections must be precise, with the irritant substance placed in the areas that require ligament repair.
What are the steps involved in Prolotherapy treatment?
Before a patient undergoes Prolotherapy, the doctor evaluates the individual suffering from joint or back pain to determine if their body and the location of the pain are suitable for treatment. This procedure may not be suitable for all patients.
What are the benefits of using Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy is considered a form of natural and long-term treatment for joint and back pain because it relies on the principle of the body repairing itself to reduce pain. In contrast, pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications provide only temporary relief, and surgical options do not always fully stabilize the joint.
After treatment, Prolotherapy helps improve overall stability and enhances the movement and function of the back and joints.
How effective is Prolotherapy in treating pain?
A study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that Prolotherapy has very high success rates in treating certain types of pain.
In general, the effectiveness or success rate of any medical or therapeutic procedure depends largely on the skill of the doctor performing it, as different bodies respond to treatment in varying ways.
What are the side effects of Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy is a safe treatment based on limited research. None of the clinical trials for Prolotherapy for lower back pain have shown serious side effects. Mild effects may include:
- Mild pain at the injection site.
- Bleeding.
- Occasional numbness.
- A feeling of fullness in the joint.
There may also be potential side effects, such as:
- Allergic reactions.
- Infection at the injection site.
- Nerve damage.
- Dizziness.
It is important to ensure that you receive regenerative treatment from a properly trained practitioner for administering injections.
