Prolotherapy is a treatment intended to help heal joint and muscle pain by injecting a natural irritant, like dextrose, into the affected area. The idea is to prompt your body's natural healing abilities by creating a small, controlled inflammation where the ligaments, tendons, and joints are strained or mildly injured. This procedure is often used for chronic joint pain, such as in osteoarthritis, or for back pain and injuries to soft tissues in the neck or other areas.

While this treatment can help with issues like persistent musculo-skeletal pain, it is not a one time fix. Typically, multiple sessions are needed, often spaced over weeks or months. Despite its benefits, prolotherapy is still considered an alternative therapy, not yet FDA approved. Outcomes can vary, and more research is needed to solidify its effectiveness.

Some patients can experience mild swelling or increased soreness at the injection site temporarily after the treatment. Most people find they can return to normal activities after a day or two, but heavy lifting is often discouraged immediately following an injection. As an alternative to prolotherapy, some people consider physical therapy, pain relief medications, regenerative options like platelet rich plasma or even surgical options if the pain is severe enough.

Always discuss with your provider about what's best for you, considering other conditions you may have, like active infections or bleeding issues, as these can affect your suitability for prolotherapy.