Introduction
Inflammation is a common underlying factor in many chronic pain conditions. Whether caused by injury, repetitive strain, or degenerative diseases, persistent inflammation can lead to significant discomfort and reduced mobility. Conventional treatments, such as pain medications and corticosteroid injections, often provide only temporary relief. However, regenerative therapies like prolotherapy have gained attention for their ability to promote tissue repair and long-term healing. At Santa Cruz Core Fitness + Rehab, prolotherapy is available as a non-surgical solution to help individuals manage inflammatory conditions and regain function.
What is Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy, short for proliferative therapy, is an injection-based treatment designed to stimulate the body’s natural healing response. It involves injecting an irritant solution—typically a dextrose-based mixture—into damaged ligaments, tendons, or joints. This mild irritation triggers an inflammatory response, leading to increased blood flow, collagen production, and tissue regeneration. Over time, prolotherapy helps strengthen weakened connective tissues, reduce pain, and improve joint stability.
Inflammatory Conditions Treated by Prolotherapy
1. Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis (OA) is one of the most common degenerative joint diseases, characterized by cartilage breakdown and chronic inflammation. Traditional treatments, such as NSAIDs and corticosteroid injections, can temporarily alleviate symptoms but may not address the underlying structural issues. Studies have shown that prolotherapy can enhance joint function and reduce pain in OA patients by promoting collagen synthesis and improving joint stability (Rabago et al., 2013). This makes it a viable alternative for individuals seeking long-term relief without relying on pharmaceuticals.
2. Tendinitis and Tendinosis
Tendinitis refers to acute inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive motion or overuse. When left untreated, it can develop into tendinosis—a chronic degenerative condition marked by collagen breakdown. Prolotherapy has been found to be effective in treating both conditions by stimulating cellular repair mechanisms. Research indicates that prolotherapy injections can increase fibroblast activity, which aids in tendon regeneration and reduces inflammation (Hauser et al., 2016).
3. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is a painful condition resulting from inflammation of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue connecting the heel bone to the toes. This condition commonly affects runners, individuals with high-impact lifestyles, and those with poor foot biomechanics. Studies suggest that prolotherapy can provide lasting relief by strengthening the fascia and improving tissue resilience (Reeves et al., 2017). Unlike corticosteroid injections, which may weaken connective tissue over time, prolotherapy encourages long-term healing.
4. Chronic Low Back Pain and Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction
Low back pain is a leading cause of disability worldwide, often linked to sacroiliac (SI) joint dysfunction, ligament laxity, or disc degeneration. Prolotherapy has been studied extensively for its effectiveness in stabilizing the SI joint and reducing inflammation in lumbar structures. A clinical trial demonstrated that patients with chronic low back pain experienced significant improvements in pain and function following prolotherapy injections (Kim et al., 2015). This suggests that prolotherapy can be a valuable treatment for those suffering from persistent spinal discomfort.
5. Rotator Cuff Injuries and Shoulder Pain
The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons responsible for shoulder stability and movement. Injuries to this area, whether from sports activities or aging-related wear and tear, can lead to chronic inflammation and impaired function. Prolotherapy injections have been shown to promote healing in rotator cuff tendinopathy by stimulating collagen synthesis and reducing inflammation. This treatment can be especially beneficial for individuals who want to avoid surgical intervention while still restoring shoulder strength and mobility.
6. Knee Ligament Injuries (MCL, ACL, PCL, LCL)
Knee ligament injuries, such as medial collateral ligament (MCL) or anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) sprains, are often accompanied by inflammation and instability. While surgery is sometimes necessary for complete tears, prolotherapy can aid in healing partial tears and ligament laxity by triggering a regenerative response. Clinical findings indicate that prolotherapy may enhance knee stability and function, making it a useful adjunct therapy for athletes and active individuals.
Prolotherapy at Santa Cruz Core
At Santa Cruz Core Fitness + Rehab, prolotherapy is available as part of a comprehensive approach to treating inflammatory conditions. The experienced practitioners at Santa Cruz Core use evidence-based techniques to deliver prolotherapy treatments tailored to each patient’s unique needs. By targeting the root cause of inflammation, prolotherapy not only alleviates pain but also fosters long-term healing and improved function.
Conclusion
Prolotherapy is a promising regenerative treatment for a variety of inflammatory conditions, ranging from osteoarthritis to chronic tendinopathies. By stimulating the body’s natural repair mechanisms, prolotherapy offers a non-surgical alternative for those seeking lasting relief from pain and inflammation. If you’re dealing with an inflammatory condition and are looking for a solution that goes beyond temporary symptom management, consider exploring prolotherapy at Santa Cruz Core Fitness + Rehab.
References
- Hauser, R. A., Dolan, E. E., Phillips, H. J., Newlin, A. C., Moore, R. E., & Woldin, B. A. (2016). “Prolotherapy: A Non-Invasive Approach to Ligament and Tendon Repair.” Journal of Prolotherapy, 8(1), 21-28.
- Kim, J., Lee, S., & Yoon, B. (2015). “Effects of Prolotherapy on Chronic Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Pain Medicine, 16(3), 490-500.
- Rabago, D., Patterson, J. J., Mundt, M., Kijowski, R., & Grettie, J. (2013). “Dextrose Prolotherapy for Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial.” Annals of Family Medicine, 11(3), 229-237.
- Reeves, K. D., Sit, R. W. S., & Rabago, D. P. (2017). “Dextrose Prolotherapy for Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain: Evidence-Based Analysis.” Clinical Medicine Insights: Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Disorders, 10, 1-8.
