Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy ("Proliferative Injection Therapy") involves injecting an otherwise non-pharmacological and non-active irritant solution into the body, generally in the region of tendons or ligaments for the purpose of strengthening weakened connective tissue and alleviating musculoskeletal pain. Dozens of studies show benefits of prolotherapy for people with chronic pain, as well as those with sports injuries. Many solutions are used, including Dextrose, Lidocaine (a commonly used local anesthetic), Phenol (an alcohol), Glycerine, or Cod Liver Oil extract. Other compounds, known as growth factors, can also be added to the injection solution. The prototypical growth factor is Human Growth Hormone (HGH) which can be used in certain prolotherapy injections to help stimulate tissue repair and regeneration. Most notably, HGH/Prolotherapy injections can useful in osteoarthritis of the knee, and ankle.
Prolotherapy injections are given into joints, or where tendon connects to bone. Many points may require injection. The Injected solution causes the body to heal itself through the process of inflammation and repair. In the case of weakened or torn connective tissue, induced inflammation and release of growth factor at the site of injury may result in a 30-40% strengthening of the attachment points.
Prolotherapy treatment sessions are generally given every one to six weeks, and initial treatment cycles can include anywhere from 3-5 injections. After that, many patients receive treatment at less and less frequent intervals until treatments are required only every several years, if at all. Side effects are minimal, and may include some transient stiffness/aching in the injected area(s), but this typically passes quickly.
Table Of Contents
- TORONTO SEMI
- Acupuncture
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopaedic Surgical Consultation
- Sport Physiotherapy
- Sport Massage Therapy
- Shockwave Therapy
- Prolotherapy
- Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Injections
- Biodex
- Pilates
- Sport Podiatry
- Naturopathy
- Sport Psychology
- Mobile Services
- Electronic Medical Records
Thank you for providing an integrated approach to health and fitness. I was referred to SEMI for physiotherapy for the debilitating pain of sciatica. As treatment progressed, I also added exercise, massage, osteopathy treatments and counseling with the dietician for weight loss, all available at SEMI. It was wonderful the way the services offered all worked together to compliment and support each other to promote recovery and renewed health. Today I am pain free and healthier and fitter than ever !
