What is prolotherapy?
Dextrose prolotherapy involves injecting a solution containing dextrose at selected musculoskeletal sites. Protocols vary and may target ligament or tendon attachments or a joint, depending on the clinical concern.
It is proposed to stimulate a local tissue response. This rationale does not establish that injections rebuild damaged tissue or correct every form of instability. Prolotherapy is distinct from PRP, which is prepared from your own blood.
A diagnosis before a treatment plan.
Persistent joint or tendon symptoms, or concerns about recurrent sprains and instability, may prompt a discussion about injection options. We assess what is contributing to your symptoms and whether an injection has a reasonable role.
- Your history. Previous injuries, operations, rehabilitation, and treatment response.
- Your examination. Movement, tenderness, stability, and relevant neurological findings.
- Your options. Exercise-based rehabilitation, medication where appropriate, other procedures, or referral when needed.
What to expect before & after treatment.
We explain the proposed solution, injection sites, expected discomfort, alternatives, and costs before treatment. Relevant medications, allergies, bleeding risk, and other health factors are reviewed. Ultrasound guidance is used for appropriate joint injections.
Aftercare is individualized, including a plan for activity and rehabilitation. Temporary soreness, stiffness, bruising, or a pain flare can occur; infection, bleeding, and injury to nearby structures are other possible risks. Do not change prescribed medication without speaking with the relevant clinician.
What does the research tell us?
Some trials in knee osteoarthritis have reported improvements in pain and function. Those findings do not establish effectiveness across all joints, tendons, ligaments, or protocols. For chronic low-back pain, a Cochrane review found uncertain benefit, with differing results when other treatments were included.
We discuss the evidence for your specific diagnosis and agree on a review point. Treatment does not guarantee tissue regrowth, lasting pain relief, or avoidance of surgery. Progress is considered alongside meaningful daily activities and the rest of your recovery plan.
Common questions.
How is prolotherapy different from PRP?
Dextrose prolotherapy uses an injected solution; PRP uses a concentrated preparation from your blood. The procedure, cost, and evidence differ.
Will prolotherapy tighten my ligaments?
That is part of the proposed rationale, but a reliable structural change cannot be promised. Decisions should consider the diagnosis, evidence, alternatives, and functional outcomes.
Will I need a series of injections?
A course may be discussed, but the number and interval depend on the condition and response. We review the rationale, fees, and criteria for reassessment before proceeding.
Can prolotherapy replace rehabilitation?
Rehabilitation remains an important part of musculoskeletal care. If an injection is appropriate, it is considered within the wider plan rather than assumed to replace movement and strengthening.
Learn more.
These resources explain the approach and the evidence discussed above. Research findings are interpreted in the context of your diagnosis and care.
- Dextrose prolotherapy for knee osteoarthritis · randomized trial ↗
- Prolotherapy for chronic low-back pain · Cochrane review ↗
Page updated November 2026.
Care with Dr. Jeff Martineau, BScH, BHSc, ND
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