Prolotherapy Injection

Prolotherapy stimulates fibrotic healing of your body by injecting a sterile hyperosmolar dextrose solution and a small amount of anesthetic. This treatment is best performed for soft tissue injuries involving muscles, tendons, or ligaments.

A radiologist will use a small, sterile needle to gently poke in the area of pain with the help of image-guided technology while injecting the prolotherapy solution. The imaging ensures placement of the needle in the area of concern. Depending on the site, we may recommend a series of treatments. The results of a single treatment should be apparent after six weeks.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

Wear comfortable clothing.
Since we want to encourage an inflammatory response, you will need to be off anti-inflammatories for two weeks prior to your appointment.
Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

We may provide you with a comfortable clinic gown to change into (depending on the area being treated).
A technologist will go over your consent form, explain the procedure, and answer any questions.
We will then escort you to our treatment suite where you will be greeted by the radiologist; you may bring in your personal belongings.
The radiologist will clean the skin and inject a local anesthetic, similar to the freezing you get at the dentist.
Ultrasound guidance will be used to perform the treatment and inject the solution using a thin, sterile needle.
After being checked by our nurse post-injection, you will be free to go.

POST-EXAM INSTRUCTIONS

Please rest for 24 hours after your injection. Avoid heavy activity and aggressive physical therapy or rehabilitation sessions for 24-48 hours. Be aware of your pain and stop if it hurts too much.
Please advise your physiotherapist that you have had this injection, so they can modify your exercises if necessary.
If possible, please avoid anti-inflammatory medication for two weeks (such as ibuprofen – Advil). It may interfere with the effectiveness of your injection.

WHEN WILL I SEE RESULTS?

Results vary from weeks to months depending on the joint or body part involved, severity of the disease, and the cause of your pain. Some patients get complete relief that is permanent, while others have no significant effect. You should start to notice results in two weeks. If an injection does not help relieve your pain, then you may need further evaluation.