Prolotherapy

Is the procedure painful?

• The injections are uncomfortable, but the local anaesthetic removes the pain quickly.  If you require many injections, splitting treatments into two separate sessions may be helpful.
• Most patients are able to drive themselves to and from the treatment and are able to return to work afterwards. 
• Most people will feel stiff for a day or two afterwards.
• Changing position regularly, gentle activity, gentle stretching, and heat are all that is usually required.
• If you are too stiff a muscle relaxant such as Robaxacet or pain medication such as Tylenol can be used.
• Please DO NOT use anti-inflammatory painkillers for at least 7 days after and 2 days prior to your injections (Advil, Ibuprofen, ASA, Celebrex etc). 

How many injections/sessions are needed?

• Most men require three to six sessions.
• Women usually require six to nine sessions as they are inherently more flexible.
• Treatments are usually done 2 -3 weeks apart.
• You can expect to see improvement from the injections one to two months after the last injection.
• Each session usually consists of between 4-20 injections, depending on the body part(s) being treated.

What follow up treatments are needed?

• If you have access to a physiotherapist it is a good idea to see them 2-7 days after your injections. This is to check joint mobility and settle any muscle spasm.
• Physiotherapy is also important one to two months after the last injection when the ligaments are tightening to ensure your body is healing in an optimal position and that the muscle strength component hasn’t been forgotten about. 

What is the cost?

• At present Alberta Health Care does NOT cover the cost of prolotherapy. 
• Fees varies depending on the number and complexity of areas treated.
• The fee will cover the cost of the procedure and materials used. 
• Insurance plans vary, but as evidence and clinical success increases, more and more insurance companies will reimburse for the treatment.
• Payment must be made at each visit and we are unable to direct bill your insurance company or WCB.

What activities are safe after treatment?

• Stay as active as possible without aggravating your condition.
• Break up activities that bother you into shorter sessions e.g. clean one room at a time instead of doing the whole house at once.
• Walking every day is usually safe.
• For those who cannot tolerate walking, swimming or low impact activity such as cycling is a good way to stay active without irritating your symptoms.
• Stress or other stimulants such as cold medications can cause muscle tightening. Try to avoid these or consider relaxation training for stress.

What do I need to book an appointment?

• Please have your referring health care provider (doctor or physiotherapist) send a referral to us for a Prolotherapy Assessment.
• If you do not have a doctor or therapist, you may request to book directly with Dr. Triska. Make sure you indicate that the purpose of your appointment is for a Prolotherapy Assessment. 

What can I expect during appointments?

• The first appointment usually does not include injections.
• Initial appointments are for assessment and reviewing your condition in-depth to determine if you are good candidate for prolotherapy, or if other types of treatment may be more appropriate.
• If you have had x-rays, MRIs or other imaging, please try to bring copies of these reports to your appointment.
• There is a $100 fee for not attending your scheduled appointment, or cancellation with less than 24 hrs prior notice.    

What should I wear and bring with me?

• Wear loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the affected area. This will also be more comfortable afterwards. 
• There is often some pinpoint bleeding after the injections which could stain your clothes, so please plan ahead.

For additional sources of information, see www.prolotherapy.com or speak directly with Dr. Triska.