Here are some general
answers to frequently asked questions
1. What is
Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy is a little known
but highly effective method of treating chronic
ligament and
tendon weakness. In
Prolotherapy, the weakened areas are injected with a proliferant solution that
directly stimulates the growth of healthy, strong tissues. The healing process can
be expected to take about six weeks after the initial treatment. As the tendons
and ligaments grow stronger and more capable of doing their tasks, the pain is
alleviated.
2. Is this the same
thing as
cortisone shots?
We do not use
cortisone with
any of our patients. Long term studies have shown that
cortisone injections
actually weaken tissue,
Prolotherapy solutions, called proliferants, cause the
ligaments and tendons to be strengthened.
3. How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies
with each patient. Many of our patients have reported partial or complete relief
of pain after only one session. Patients with a healthy immune system generally
require fewer treatments. The average person requires 4 to 6 treatment sessions
given at 4 to 6 week intervals.
4. Is Prolotherapy safe?
Prolotherapy is an extremely
safe procedure. The risks are far less than taking aspirin or motrin for a
lifetime to temporarily alleviate
chronic pain. There is, of course, at least a
slight risk involved in any medical procedure. In Prolotherapy, the risks and
side effects will vary depending on the area being treated, and the doctor will
discuss these possibilities fully with the patients during the pre-treatment
consultation.
5. Will my insurance cover this?
That depends on the coverage
your insurance provides. Most insurance companies will cover part of your
Prolotherapy treatment. The patient is responsible for expenses not covered by
health insurance policies.