How does it work? Prolotherapy is an injection that contains a potential irritant, such as a dextrose solution. The irritant is thought to trigger the body's healing response. Once activated, the body will start to strengthen and repair damaged ligaments in the joint.

What is the success rate of prolotherapy?

The prolotherapy success rate for patients with torn ligaments and tendons is about 90%, and usually does not require further treatment once the tendon or ligament is healed; unless they are re-injured by a strenuous activity. During a patient's treatment, we recommend modifying their activities.

Does prolotherapy work well?

Does it work? Prolotherapy may provide some pain relief. In one study , 90 adults who had had painful OA of the knee for 3 months or more had either dextrose prolotherapy or saline injections plus exercise as a treatment. The participants had an initial injection plus further injections after 1, 5, and 9 weeks.