Prolotherapy works by stimulating a temporary, low-grade inflammation at the site of ligament or tendon weakness, “tricking” the body into initiating a new healing cycle cascade. Prolotherapy increases fibroblast and collagen production which repairs and strengthens tendons and ligaments which can then stabilise joints.
Conditions treated with Prolotherapy at Pioneer Podiatry
Ligament strain –For years, the primary objective of prolotherapy treatment has been to address both acute and chronic pain resulting from ankle sprains, ankle instability, and various other injuries by strengthening ligaments in the lower limb and beyond.
Tendinopathies –Tendon injuries happen when they're overloaded. The usual treatment involves managing training and exercises for months. Tendinopathies often become chronic and fail to heal due to excess of a specific growth factor called VEGF. Prolotherapy speeds up healing by blocking VEGF with glucose. It's effective for various tendon issues like Achilles tendinopathy. Lower doses can help with tears.
Plantar fasciopathy (chronic + plantar fascia tear) - Prolotherapy is notably beneficial for persistent heel pain cases resistant to other treatments, particularly when an interstitial tear is present.
Sinus Tarsi Syndrome
1st MTPJ (big toe joint) synovitis / hallux limitus
Morton’s Neuroma
Arthritis (ankle, subtalar, midfoot, 1st MTPJ)
Neuropathic pain, radiculopathy
Shin splints (MTSS), Compartment Syndrome, and calf muscle issues
So in short, prolotherapy reduces pain, promotes soft tissue and cartilage repair, normalises irritable nerves, strengthens tendons, strengthens, thickens, and shortens ligaments, and stabilises joints.
