Chronic low back pain is one of the most common causes of disability and discomfort, especially for people under 45. While many treatments focus on masking pain, prolotherapy offers a regenerative approach that targets the root cause by stimulating the body’s natural healing mechanisms.
At Venturis Clinic in Oklahoma City, under the care of Dr. Alvin Philipose, prolotherapy is used to strengthen weakened or damaged connective tissues, helping patients find long-term relief from low back pain, sciatica, degenerative disc disease, and more.
What Is Prolotherapy?
Prolotherapy—also known as regenerative injection therapy, proliferation therapy, or non-surgical ligament reconstruction—involves injecting a natural solution into ligaments, tendons, or joints. The solution triggers a mild inflammatory response that initiates tissue repair and regeneration. Commonly used agents include:
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Dextrose (sugar water), sometimes with phenol or glycerin
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Sodium morrhuate (from cod liver oil)
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Collagen, amino acids, and minerals
Each injection encourages the body to rebuild and strengthen the injured area.
Conditions Treated with Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is frequently used to manage pain related to spinal and soft tissue issues, including:
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Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
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Degenerative disc disease
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Sciatica
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Whiplash
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Ligament sprains and muscle strains
It works by addressing the underlying ligament laxity, which is often overlooked in chronic low back pain.
Outcomes and Effectiveness
Success rates for prolotherapy in treating chronic low back pain range from 80% to 90% when performed by skilled physicians. Reported benefits include:
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Reduced or eliminated chronic low back pain
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Improved ligament and tendon strength
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Decreased recurrence of injury
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Enhanced mobility and function
Effective outcomes depend on accurate diagnosis, physician experience, and patient commitment to follow-up care.
Recovery After Prolotherapy
Some swelling or discomfort at the injection site is normal and usually resolves within 2–3 days. Recommended post-treatment care includes:
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Applying ice packs 3–5 times a day for 20 minutes
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Avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs like aspirin or NSAIDs
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Taking acetaminophen or prescribed pain relievers if needed
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Engaging in light activity such as walking
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Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous exercise
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Following your physician’s post-care plan
Risks and Complications
When administered by a trained provider like Dr. Philipose, prolotherapy is generally safe. However, mild side effects may include:
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Swelling or soreness
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Temporary stiffness or pain
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Mild headaches
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Rare allergic reactions
Severe complications are extremely rare but may include:
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Nerve damage or spinal fluid leaks
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Pneumothorax (collapsed lung) in rare anatomical cases
Proper technique and experience are critical to minimizing risk.
Why Choose Dr. Alvin Philipose at Venturis Clinic?
With over 21 years of experience and thousands of successful injections performed, Dr. Philipose brings unmatched expertise in regenerative treatments. At Venturis Clinic, our goal is to address the root cause of your pain—not just manage symptoms.
Conclusion
Prolotherapy is a safe, minimally invasive, and highly effective option for treating chronic low back pain, sciatica, and disc-related conditions. It offers long-term relief and functional improvement without surgery or dependence on narcotics.
If you’re ready to explore a more regenerative, root-cause approach to back pain, call Venturis Clinic in Oklahoma City at 405-848-7246 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Philipose.