Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy refers to the injection of sterile nutrient solutions to promote the growth of local stem-cells. The injections trigger the release of a variety of growth factors in the area receiving the injection, most often a joint, tendon or ligament.These growth factors stimulate stem cells to proliferate and differentiate into the cells necessary for the repair of the injury or degenerative condition.

These growths factors include Insulin-like Growth Factors I-IV, Transforming Growth Factor Beta, Epidermal Growth Factor, Basic Fibroblast Growth Factor, Platelet Derived Growth Factor, and undoubtedly many others. These have been shown to be released during Prolotherapy treatments and appear to be the main basis for repair.It has been shown that elevating the concentration of Glucose (sugar) by 0.5% in the fluid surrounding the fibroblasts induces the DNA machinery to release numerous factors such as those mentioned above.

The healing effect is a graded, controlled reaction producing repair of the weak and damaged connective tissue. When properly applied, Prolotherapy does not induce scar formation. The bonds in the connective tissue are stronger, healthier, and thicker than before treatment, and with each treatment continue to strengthen, until the healing is complete and the pain resolved.

Since the injections need to be placed with great accuracy, and may cause a temporary discomfort, most dogs will require a light narcotic sedative for the procedure. The typical hospital stay is a half day, although some dogs and their guardians appreciate the chance to rest and “sleep it off” for longer.
The injections can be placed into multiple locations at one session, and typically a series of 3-5 sessions is required.