What is Prolotherapy?

It is a proliferative treatment method that stimulates cell proliferation and triggers healing. It is a treatment applied by injecting 10-20% dextrose solution into the points where ligaments and tendons connect to the bone. It is used in musculoskeletal disorders. It is an effective method if there is damage to the ligaments (ligaments) and tendons (the points where muscle tendons connect to the bone) that connect the joints.

If the ligaments and tendons degenerate or are damaged due to age and use or trauma, a looseness called laxity occurs in the joints. This causes pain in the joint, accelerates the degeneration process of the joint cartilage and causes calcification. In such cases, prolotherapy ensures the repair and tightening of the ligaments and tendons.

In Which Diseases Is It Applied?

• Shoulder: Rotator cuff tendonitis, recurrent shoulder dislocations, pain and instability following shoulder traumas
• Elbow: Tensiologist and golfer’s elbow
• Hand: Root arthrosis, tendonitis
• Spine: Waist, neck and back calcification
• Knee: Calcification, ligament injuries, meniscus problems
• Hip: Calcification and periarticular tendonitis
• Ankle: Chronic problems and laxity due to ankle sprains

What is the Frequency and Number of Sessions?

Sessions are applied at an average interval of 3-4 weeks. The number of sessions depends on the degree of the problem. While there are problems that are solved in a single session, there may be problems that last longer than 4-6 sessions.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Since there will be inflammation after the injection, there may be an increase in pain that lasts for a few days. During this period, simple analgesics such as paracetamol and cold application can be applied. Bruising and swelling can sometimes be seen in the injection area. When asepsis rules are followed and the technique is used properly, there are almost no serious side effects.

What to Consider When Having Prolotherapy?

If cortisone is used, it should be stopped 3 weeks in advance, if anti-inflammatory drugs are used, it should be stopped at least 3-4 days in advance because it blocks the therapeutic effect of the method. It is necessary not to put too much pressure on the areas where the injection is made after the injection and to avoid aggressive movements. Since there will be inflammation in the injection area, especially if the tendons are strained, a tear may occur. Cold application and simple painkillers can be used for 24-48 hours in case of pain and swelling that may occur after the pain.

Who Should Not Have It?

It is not applied to those who use anticoagulant drugs, those with infections, cancer patients, pregnant women, those with inflammatory rheumatic diseases, those who use immunosuppressive drugs and cortisone.