What is Prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy is an effective and reliable treatment modality for musculoskeletal and joint disorders.

Prolotherapy is derived from the Latin words “proliferation” and “therapy.” It is an injection technique that stimulates the regeneration and repair of ligaments and tendons. By injecting a targeted solution into weakened or damaged ligaments, tendons, and joint capsules, it medically (iatrogenically) reactivates the body’s natural wound-healing cascade.

Prolotherapy aims to repair chronic tissue degeneration at the critical attachment sites where muscles exert force and stabilize skeletal movement.

By stimulating the enthesis – the fibro-osseous junction where tendon or ligament attaches to bone – the body ceases to accept chronic, non-healing degeneration and initiates a renewed regenerative healing activity.

The scope of treatment includes joints and periarticular structures. Consequently, it is a safe, highly effective, and restorative therapy used for both post-traumatic tissue injuries and non-rheumatic joint and muscle degenerations.

What Substances Are Used in Treatment?

The primary therapeutic agent utilized is dextrose, a naturally occurring sugar solution that is remarkably safe for human physiology and commonly found in standard intravenous fluids. When injected, this harmless osmotic molecule initially creates a localized, controlled irritation. Experiencing temporary discomfort or mild ache during this initial 24-hour stimulation period is entirely normal and expected.

The therapeutic solution stimulates tissue at the most critical mechanical junction. This controlled irritation awakens dormant repair mechanisms, initiating restorative activity at the cellular level.

This biological repair process gradually restores the treated tissue back toward its original structural resilience. In addition to dextrose solutions, biologically compatible agents such as ozonated saline or autologous biological derivatives may also be utilized.

How Many Sessions Are Required?

The standard clinical protocol consists of 3 sessions. The second session is administered 10 to 15 days after the first. The third session is typically performed 30 to 45 days after the initial procedure, adjusted to the patient’s individual clinical recovery.

You can watch Dr. Mehmet Salih Özaytürk’s detailed clinical explanation regarding session planning and treatment frequency in the Prolotherapy Session Count video recording.

What is Prolotherapy?