First, it is important to understand what the word prolotherapy itself means. “Prolo” is short for proliferation, because the treatment causes the proliferation (growth, formation) of new ligament tissue in areas where it has become weak.

When injuries occur, the area may not heal completely due to poor blood supply and from lack of proper treatment. For this reason, ligaments, joints and tendons heal very slowly. If left untreated, damaged ligaments become loose, allowing bones in the joint to swing out of alignment causing pain, muscle spasms, and eventually arthritis. Through years of dysfunctional movement, the joints start to wear themselves out. This is where Prolotherapy and PRP can intervene stabilizing the structures and decrease the progression of pain and aging. If left untreated, the pain will continue.

The most basic Prolotherapy solution contains a naturally occurring sugar (dextrose) combined with an anesthetic (lidocaine). Other common, natural substances can also be used effectively. This solution does NOT contain cortisone, which is known to decrease inflammation, but will also slow or stop the healing process.