• Who is a candidate for Prolotherapy?
• How does it work?
• Why should I do it?
• What should I do before my first injection?
• What should I do after the injection to ensure a successful recovery?
• Are there side effects?

One of many innovative treatments for chronic pain that we offer at the Kaplan Clinic is Prolotherapy. It is often used to treat chronic pain due to a muscle imbalance or unstable connective tissue. Most often it is used to treat low-back pain. But it also can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment program for any unstable joint or area along the spine, in the wrists or around the elbow. Prolotherapy has been used to treat arthritis, headaches, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, and partially torn ligaments and cartilage.

Who is a candidate for Prolotherapy?

Chronic pain sufferers who have tried many other treatments -- but nothing has worked. For example, you may have slipped and fallen at some point and injured your back or shoulder, causing the connective tissue in the injured area to become unstable (so that sometimes you may actually feel a bone popping out of joint). If you've gone to a chiropractor or physical therapist -- and the area is still painful and unstable -- this treatment might be right for you.

How does it work?

Your doctor will inject a sugar solution into the painful, unstable area. The injection initially creates inflammation, which tricks the body into thinking that a new injury has occurred. It immediately sets out to heal itself by creating new scar tissue in the area. This new connective tissue stabilizes the bones, joints and muscles. The scar tissue essentially makes the area stronger and more stable structure -- which can also relieve the pain. Usually, a patient only needs one or two treatments.

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