Prolotherapy, also known as Ligament Reconstructive
Therapy and Sclerotherapy, is a technique of strengthening
ligaments naturally. Ligaments are structures that connect
bones to each other and provide support for all of the
joints of the body, including the spine. Ligaments may
stretch and become lax from injury or from wear and
tear over time. When this occurs the joint becomes unstable
and painful. Rehabilitation and manipulation attempts
often fail to provide lasting relief because such attempts
cannot strengthen ligaments.
Fortunately, these ligaments can be strengthened
through Prolotherapy. In this approach the affected
ligaments are injected with natural substances to deliberately
cause inflammation. The ligament responds by laying
down collagen tissue which develops over several weeks
into mature ligament. The result is a thickened, strengthened
ligament and a more stable joint. This is very different
from injecting cortisone which lessens inflammation
but can actually weaken the ligaments. For most joints
of the body, a series of four to twelve injections are
necessary to achieve the desired effect.
A diagnosis of ligament laxity is made
by taking a complete history combined with physical
examination and review of X-rays of the effected area.
The classical history would include joint or spine pain
of several month's duration where efforts such as physical
therapy or manipulation have not provided lasting relief.
Limited range of motion is often present. The pain may
be the result of an acute injury or it can develop over
time from wear and tear. Physical examination reveals
very tender focal areas over the painful site. X-rays
do not show the ligaments themselves, but are often
necessary to rule out other sources of pain or limited
range of motion.
Once the diagnosis is made, the affected
area is injected with the following substances:
Lidocaine, a local anesthetic to lessen
discomfort.
Vitamin B 12, to help nourish the developing tissue.
Concentrated Dextrose, a corn sugar, to cause inflammation
that leads to collagen deposition.
Sodium Morrhuate, a derivative of Cod liver oil, used
to further facilitate the inflammatory process.
Significant improvement is usually noted
after the third treatment, although each person will
have their own unique response.
Dr. Teitelbaum
has been practicing Prolotherapy since 1994. |
