Prolotherapy

Strengthen lax ligaments, restore stability, and reduce pain with targeted regenerative injections.

Prolotherapy: Stimulate Healing for Ligament and Joint Stability

Strengthen lax ligaments, restore stability, and reduce pain with targeted regenerative injections.

What Is Prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy is a regenerative injection technique that uses a mild, natural solution (often dextrose) to stimulate the body’s repair response. By triggering controlled inflammation at weakened ligaments or tendons, prolotherapy encourages new tissue growth and improved joint stability over time.

Unlike pain-masking injections such as cortisone, prolotherapy works by restarting the healing process in areas that may have failed to repair fully after an injury. This makes it especially valuable for patients struggling with chronic instability or recurring sprains.

Conditions Treated with Prolotherapy

Prolotherapy can be helpful in cases where loose ligaments are the root cause of pain or dysfunction. Common conditions include:

Chronic Ankle Instability

From repeated sprains

Knee Instability

Due to ligament laxity

Whiplash Injuries

And neck pain tied to damaged ligaments

Shoulder Instability

And rotator cuff strains

Low Back Pain

Linked to lax supporting ligaments

Common Areas Treated

Knee

SI Joint

Shoulder

Elbow

Wrist & Hand

Ankle & Foot

Spine

Head & Neck

How Prolotherapy Works

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A natural irritant (usually dextrose) is injected into weakened ligaments or tendons.

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The irritant triggers a controlled inflammatory response.

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The body responds by laying down new collagen fibers, strengthening and tightening the ligament.

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Because ligaments heal slowly, multiple sessions (3–6 weeks apart) are often recommended.

What to Expect After Treatment

Immediately

Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site, lasting a few days.

Short Term

Gradual strengthening and improved joint stability over 2–3 sessions.

Long Term

Many patients report lasting pain relief and better function once ligaments have healed and tightened.

"Years of sprains left me with constant instability. After a series of prolotherapy treatments, I can run without worrying about rolling my ankle. It’s the most solid it’s felt in years. My ankle finally feels stable again."

Kelly R.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prolotherapy safe?

Yes. It uses natural, diluted solutions like dextrose. Risks are minimal and complications are rare.

How many treatments will I need?

Most patients see results after 2–4 sessions, though severe cases may require more.

How quickly does it work?

Improvements typically begin after the second or third session, with continued progress as ligaments heal.

Do you use imaging during prolotherapy?

Yes. All injections at IOW are performed under ultrasound or fluoroscopic guidance to ensure precision.

Is prolotherapy covered by insurance?

Most insurers consider it elective. We provide transparent pricing and financing options.

Related Treatments

Patients exploring functional medicine may also benefit from:

PRP Therapy

Harness your body's healing platelets

Stem Cell Therapy

Advanced regenerative medicine

Non-Surgical Orthopedics

Comprehensive treatment options

Struggling with Unstable Joints?

Rebuild Strength and Stability with Prolotherapy

Chronic joint instability doesn’t have to define your daily life. Prolotherapy may help your body rebuild and strengthen where it matters most.

Interventional Orthopedics of Washington
Fax: (425) 326-1667

Clinic Hours

Open:

Tues – Fri 8:30am to 5pm

Closed:

Sat, Sun, Mon

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