Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy is an injection-based treatment that aims to stimulate a local tissue response in selected painful or degenerative musculoskeletal conditions. It is most commonly discussed in relation to chronic tendon or ligament problems and some joint or soft-tissue pain conditions that have not responded adequately to rehabilitation and other conservative care.

The treatment involves injecting a small volume of a solution, commonly a dextrose-based solution, into carefully selected areas around a tendon, ligament or joint. Ultrasound guidance may be used to improve accuracy, particularly for deeper structures or when precise placement is important. The injections are intended to create a controlled local response rather than simply provide temporary numbing.

Evidence for prolotherapy varies according to the condition and treatment site, so it is not appropriate for every patient and should not be presented as a guaranteed regenerative treatment. When it is considered suitable, treatment is usually combined with an active rehabilitation programme and improvement may take time. Dr Danesh will discuss the evidence relevant to your particular condition and realistic expectations before proceeding.