Prolotherapy works by injecting an irritant into connective tissue that requires repair. It is common to experience discomfort, irritation, aches and pains after the treatment for a period of time. As every patient is different, some might experience discomfort for 24 hrs after treatment, while others may feel discomfort for days to weeks.
After the first prolotherapy treatment, Dr. Cassano typically recommends a supplement called Collagenics. This is a natural health product specifically designed to help connective tissue heal faster and become stronger. This is especially useful after a prolotherapy treatment. Dr. Cassano will discuss dose at the first appointment.
All patient are to refrain from using anti-inflammatory medications 1 day before, during and for as long as possible after prolotherapy treatments. Because prolotherapy is pro-inflammatory, using anti-inflammatory medications would prevent achieving maximum desirable outcome of the treatment. Acetominophen would be an appropriate choice if pain is an issue. However, most patients do not require any pain medication at all.
Using ice for pain or discomfort is an appropriate option at any point after the treatment.
Exercise for the area treated should be avoided for 48 hrs after treatment. After 48 hrs, return to normal activity is possible, but at 50% maximum effort. Ten days post-treatment, full use of the treated area is reasonable.