Prolotherapy, short for proliferation therapy or regenerative injection therapy, is a type of injection designed to promote natural healing of a ligament or tendon. The goal is to strengthen weakened connective tissue and improve musculoskeletal pain. Prolotherapy is just one of many regenerative treatment options provided by our specialists at the Virginia Spine Institute. This unique treatment option helps those dealing with joint and musculoskeletal pain.
A dextrose solution is commonly used; this solution is a non-pharmacological irritant and is injected into the ligament or tendon. The theory is that the solution causes an increase in blood supply and overall flow of nutrients to stimulate tissue repair. The dextrose solution causes a localized inflammation and self-initiates the tissue to repair itself.
Response to this treatment is variable and may require serial treatments. The average number of treatments is around four to six. After initiating treatment, one of our specialized physician can provide you with a better estimate.
Reviewed by: Dr. Christopher Good, MD, FACS.