The use of hypertonic dextrose solutions to treat lax ligaments and instability of any joints in the body. Platelet Rich Plasma and Stem cell therapy also count as prolotherapy since the result is a ‘proliferation’ of normal body connective tissue and collagen found in ligaments and tendons.
Prolotherapy can be used to treat the spine including lumbar, thoracic and cervical spine up to the level of C2 but we do not use this treatment any higher. We can treat osteoarthritis of the knee and hip along with recurrent ankle sprains and shoulder instability or rotator cuff tendinopathy. There are too many areas of the body to list here and it is worth a consultation to discuss your options.
A standard set of prolotherapy in the UK is three injections but if there is considerable improvement and the improvement is incomplete then a further three injections are frequently offered.
Yes, for safety and accuracy whilst maintaining the comprehensive nature of the treatment.
On average, patients experience one year of improvement and relief from prolotherapy. However, there is a huge variation and sometimes improvement lasts from three months to 15 years. A repeat course of injections is often indicated and produces a similar period of relief.
Yes, but the fluoroscopic x-ray is extremely low dose, you get more radiation on a transatlantic flight! For accuracy we use fluoroscopic x ray.
There is minimal danger to the sciatic nerve. The risk may be more if the injection is done without x-ray guidance. There is 1:7000 chance of allergy, infection bleeding or nerve damage as with any spinal injection.
1/7000 chance of allergic reaction, infection, bleeding or nerve injury which is similar to any spinal injection. The pain can feel worse for a day or so after the injection.
Around 14,500 over 32 years
Around 80% of patients.
Dr Simon Petrides specialises in prolotherapy and other pain management treatments for back, muscle and joint pain at Blackberry Clinic Milton Keynes. Dr Petrides is a musculoskeletal physician with over 30 years of experience and is a leading expert in his field.
