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.

Acute pain may be relieved with cortisone, but repeated use causes a weakening of the tissues and chronic pain develops.  The Prolotherapy solution is injected near the ligament or tendon attachment at the bone or joint.  This causes a localized inflammation in these weak areas which then increases the blood supply and flow of nutrients and stimulates the tissue to repair itself.

Prolotherapy strengthens ligaments and decreases pain by stimulating the body’s own repair and healing mechanism in the areas stimulated. There is a growing body of evidence proving the efficacy and benefits of prolotherapy.

Dr. John Odom is one of only a few premier physicians in the midwest skilled in the Hackett-Hemwall method of prolotherapy. Learn more HERE.

Rabago, D; et al. Dextrose Prolotherapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Control Trial. Annals of Family Medicine. 11(3); 2013: 229-37.

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