Prolotherapy
Dextrose prolotherapy is a nonsurgical technique involving the injection of dextrose into an injured area to stimulate a healing response. Most commonly, the dextrose is injected into a degenerated tendon or ligament insertion onto the bone (called an enthesis), or into an arthritic joint such as the knee or shoulder. Like all other forms of regenerative injection therapies, the ultimate goal of prolotherapy is to reduce pain and improve the function of painful joints.
The origin of Prolotherapy can be traced as far back as the early 1930’s when Dr. Gedney, an osteopathic surgeon, treated his thumb injury with an irritant solution to heal the injured ligaments. At this time, he termed the injection ‘sclerotherapy.’ Further research was conducted in the mid-1950’s by Dr. Hackett, who later coined the term ‘prolotherapy,’ short for ‘proliferative therapy.’ Dr. Hackett was one of the first physicians to use dextrose as the irritant solution and is regarded as one of the top pioneers in the field of prolotherapy.
How Prolotherapy
Injections Work
Prolotherapy works by stimulating your body’s natural repair process to improve tissue strength and integrity, which can improve pain and function. Injected dextrose initiates a temporary, local, and low-grade inflammation that stimulates fibroblasts in the area. When activated, these fibroblasts synthesize new collagen and strengthen the connective tissue in that area. The result of this natural cascade of events is stronger connective tissue, which can helps restore stability to the joint while simultaneously reducing pain. Prolotherapy has very few adverse side effects and is oftentimes a safer alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the risks and side effects?
Before any procedure with us, your physician will explain all potential risks and side effects in person.
Am I guaranteed results?
Like all medical procedures, regenerative injection procedures have a success and failure rate. An initial consultation with Dr. Timmermans will determine if you are a good candidate.
How many treatments will I need?
While each person and condition are different, the majority of patients require 3-6 injections for the full resolution of pain, spread out every 4-6 weeks. The average number of treatments is 4.
How soon can I return to activity?
After the procedure, we recommend minimal activity for the first 3-7 days, followed by light activity for another seven days, followed by increasing intensity on a weekly basis for another 2-4 weeks. You should be back to full activity within 4-6 weeks. Other therapies offered by Regenerative Performance, such as oral or intravenous supplementation can speed the healing process.
What is the cost?
Because each patient is unique, both in their condition to be treated and in which approach is best for them, the pricing of procedures can vary considerably from patient to patient. An evaluation will give you a better idea of condition, treatment, and costs specific to your situation.
Does insurance cover this procedure?
Insurance does not cover this procedure, nor is Regenerative Performance contracted with any insurance companies.
How can I prepare for the injection?
We recommend no corticosteroids (inhaled, topical, oral or injection) or blood thinners (e.g. Aspirin) for 4-6 weeks before the procedure and no anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen, Advil, etc.) for one week before the procedure.
How do I get started?
You can get started by booking an appointment with Dr. Timmermans by calling 480-508-4226.
What to EXPECT:
Our approach
Here’s what you can expect when you work with us.
Detailed history and current health status
Your initial appointment will include a deep dive into your health history, as well as your current health status and what brought you in today.
Medical, lifestyle, and
behavioral evaluation
We will perform a medical evaluation and assess your current lifestyle, in addition to any behavioral or mental blocks that might be holding you back.
Treatment Plan
Using proven treatment modalities, health practices, lifestyle changes, supplementation, and regenerative medicine, we’ll create a plan that is tailored to your specific needs, getting you on the path to feeling your best.
