“Prolo” is short for proliferation, because the treatment causes the proliferation (growth, formation) of new ligament tissue in areas where it has become weak.

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Prolotherapy involves the injection of an irritant solution into a joint space, weakened ligament, or tendon insertion to relieve pain. Most commonly, hyperosmolar dextrose (a sugar) is the solution used; glycerine, lidocaine, phenol and sodium morrhuate (a derivative of cod liver oil extract) are other commonly used agents. The injection is administered at joints or at tendons where they connect to bone.

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Prolotherapy treatment sessions are generally given every two to six weeks for several months in a series ranging from 3 to 6 or more treatments.

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ProlozoneTM is derived from the word ozone and the Latin word “proli”. It literally means rebuilding tissues with ozone. ProlozoneTM therapy involves the injection of ozone into soft tissues, ligaments, and tendons. This causes a localized inflammation in these weak areas, which then increases the blood supply and flow of nutrients, the blastic stimulation of anabolic cells such as fibroblasts, osteoblasts, and chondroblasts. These effects stimulate the tissue to repair itself, strengthening and tightening and thereby stabilizing the area.

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The injection of “proliferating” agents first began in the 1830's, when potent chemical irritants were used to treat hernias non-surgically. Prolotherapy in one form or another has been used in Europe for over 40 years, and over the past ten years, Dr Shallenberger improved with Prolozone TM Therapy for a more effective, less painful and more gentle procedure.