Close
  • Home
  • About
  • Services
  • Providers
  • Patients
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Schedule Now
  • About
  • Services
    • Orthopedics & Sports Medicine
      • PRP Injections
      • Prolotherapy
      • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
      • Chiropractic
      • Massage Therapy
      • Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Hydrodissection
      • MSK Ultrasound
    • Functional Medicine
      • IV Nutritional Therapy
      • Neurofeedback
      • Acupuncture
      • Nutrition
      • Hormone testing & Functional Labs
      • Massage Therapy
    • Aesthetics
      • PRP Skin Rejuvenation
      • PRP Hair Restoration
      • Injectables
      • Cosmetic Laser
      • Advanced Aesthetics & Clinical Skincare
  • Providers
  • Patients
    • Patient Portal
    • Patient Forms
    • Schedule Appointment
    • Products
      • Epionce
      • Fullscript
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • 503-232-5653
  • Schedule Now
  • Request Consultation

Prolotherapy

The prolotherapy specialists at FoRM Health in Portland, Oregon have used this time-tested technique since they’ve been in practice.  Prolotherapy (polo = proliferative) has been around officially since the 1950s, with variants of the technique pre-dating that.  The primary goal of this therapy is strengthening ligaments, which are the supportive structures of all joints.  Prolotherapy can stimulate an immune response similar to PRP, and sometimes you may benefit from a combination of the two therapies together.

If you suffer from chronic joint pain where ligament damage is present, prolotherapy may effectively treat your joint through stabilizing these ligaments.  Since the main component of the solution injected is typically dextrose (a type of sugar), this therapy is exceptionally safe, with minimal side effects or adverse reactions.  Recent research also shows dextrose has a beneficial effect on nerve pain (see more about our nerve hydrodissection services here).

What conditions is Prolotherapy used for?

  • Arthritis
  • Chronic sprains, strains, tendonosis (Tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, patellar tendonitis, achilles tendonitis, etc)
  • Rotator cuff injuries
  • Chronic shoulder subluxation (dislocation)
  • Ligament laxity and joint instability, including Ehlers-Danlos spectrum
  • Oshgood-Schlatters
  • Chronic pain from motor vehicle accidents, whiplash
  • Spine related pain (cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacroiliac)
  • Chronic headaches
  • Rib, costovertebral pain

 

Schedule with FoRM’s Prolotherapy specialist:

Dr. Ryan Minarik ND, LAc

FAQ

How does prolotherapy work?

Prolotherapy works by causing a mild inflammatory response at the site of injury, with an injected substance, typically dextrose. The inflammation results in a renewed healing response which helps to repair damaged tissues, such as ligaments and tendons.

If so effective, why have I not heard of it before?

Since the main component of the solution injected is typically dextrose (a type of sugar), the therapy was not funded for extensive trials, and lost favor to more extensively studied drug or surgical approaches over the years.  In part due to its clinical success, however, along with its high level of safety as an injection therapy, more recent research has helped prove its effectiveness, including Level I studies (the top tier and most conclusive from a research standpoint).  A landmark study proved undeniable benefit for knee arthritis, with several other smaller studies proving its use in other conditions, particularly those involving ligament damage or laxity.   (For those wanting research, see Dr Dean Reeves’,of the University of Kansas School of Medicine, great summary here!)

I’ve heard prolotherapy involves multiple injections. Is this true?

In general, yes. Often prolotherapy is used for joint injuries which involves ligament damage or laxity (weakness). Since there are many ligaments around a joint, including the joint capsule itself, most if not all of the ligaments are treated to help get maximal stability. When a joint is injured (sprain, rolled ankle, etc) it is virtually impossible to injure just a single ligament because of the stretch that occurs through the entire joint.

Does the treatment hurt?

A local anesthetic is used at the injection site to reduce needle/injection discomfort; this part is generally well tolerated. Prolo is meant to stimulate an immune response, which starts with inflammation (and is the reason for pain during any injury). Since prolo helps stimulate this response, there can be ranging degrees of increased soreness following treatment, on average for 2-3 days.

Can I take pain medications following treatment?

Tylenol is allowed for pain relief. Low dose opioid medications are occasionally prescribed for certain injections (typically only needed for 2-3 days following treatment). Anti-inflammatory (NSAIDs) and steroid medications are not allowed (rare exceptions) as these interfere with a normal inflammatory and healing response.

How quickly does it work? When will I see results?

This depends on the type of injury, location, and length of time since onset. As a general rule, it takes 2-3 months for the initial stages of regeneration and repair to occur. At this point patients typically see and feel results. Repair processes can continue for many months after injections. For osteoarthritis, pain reduction can actually occur much more quickly, within a couple weeks. Also, dextrose can help with certain types of nerve irritation; injections may help reduce this type of pain much quicker.

Do I have to avoid sports or my favorite activities? If so, for how long?

Again, this varies depending on the condition. Prolo is usually better tolerated with quicker recovery than PRP, but time is still needed for healing. Typically major exercise is avoided for the first week after treatment, with return to normal activity levels over the 2nd week. Exceptions to this are discussed following the initial visit.

What is actually in the injections?

Baseline prolotherapy solutions include dextrose (a sugar), a small amount of anesthetic (usually lidocaine or procaine), and saline. Vitamin B12, testosterone, or other natural substances may be added depending on the condition or strength of response needed. Aside from the anesthetic, there are no other pharmaceutical medications used.

Does dextrose prolotherapy cause scarring?

No. Prolotherapy with dextrose stimulates a regenerative response, with collagen production and strengthening/tightening of ligaments. This does not cause scarring. This should not be confused with sclerotherapy, another term often confused with prolo. Sclerotherapy involves injecting substances into damaged blood vessels, typically smaller veins, to irritate and destroy them.

What are the contra-indications for Prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy is generally very safe and well tolerated with most medications or other medical conditions. A full medical history is always reviewed prior to initiating treatment. Patients on immunosuppressive medications, active cancer, or infection around the site to be treated are contraindications to treatment.

Orthopedics

  • PRP Injections
  • Prolotherapy
  • Sports Acupuncture & Dry Needling
  • Chiropractic
  • Massage Therapy
  • Ultrasound-Guided Nerve Hydrodissection
  • MSK Ultrasound

Functional Medicine

  • IV Nutritional Therapy
  • Neurofeedback
  • Acupuncture
  • Nutrition
  • Hormone testing & Functional Labs
  • Massage Therapy

Aesthetics

  • PRP Skin Rejuvenation
  • PRP Hair Restoration
  • Injectables
  • Cosmetic Laser
  • Advanced Aesthetics & Clinical Skincare

Schedule Your Appointment Today

Feel better. Move better. Look better.

Schedule Appointment

At FoRM, we specialize in a variety of injection t At FoRM, we specialize in a variety of injection techniques to resolve musculoskeletal and nerve-based pain and injuries.
This minimally invasive approach achieves results without surgery - meaning less cost, shorter downtime and reduced risk of adverse outcomes. 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

Seen above - this type of injection is referred to as nerve hydrodissection, which helps relieve pain and numbness caused by nerve compression, (aka carpal tunnel syndrome).

You don’t have to live your life limited by pain or other chronic symptoms!

Schedule with Dr. Ryan using link in bio if you’re struggling to find a solution to your pain and injury.
#prolotherapy #prp #regenerativemedicine #ozonetherapy #naturalpainrelief #movebetter #movebetterfeelbetter #injectiontherapy #sellwoodmoreland #formhealth
LEFTOVERS ➡️ PERFECT BRUNCH BOWL. 🤤 🍳P LEFTOVERS ➡️ PERFECT BRUNCH BOWL. 🤤 

🍳Pan fried salmon over quinoa with fridge veggies & a drizzle of homemade sriracha aioli (1tbsp avocado oil mayo + 1tsp sriracha or other hot sauce!)🍳

Feeling uninspired with food + cooking? Tap the link in bio to learn more about our nutrition counseling & food relationship support! 
🥑🍓🫐🥥🫐🍓🥑
Provider spotlight💡 Meet one of our talented a Provider spotlight💡

Meet one of our talented and highly skilled massage therapists, MaryJane!

MaryJane provides an intuitive blend of myofascial, deep tissue, swedish, craniosacral and Reiki to help you feel better in mind, body and spirit.

Her clients ❤️ her…

“MaryJane was kind, professional, considerate, knowledgable, and caring. I felt heard. Her massage was relaxing and since then, the reason I came to see her - pain in my neck - has decreased!”

Looking to feel better + move better? Schedule with MaryJane using link in bio! You may have to get on her waitlist, but don’t worry, we’ll get you in!

#feelbettermovebetter #massagetherapy #portlandmassagetherapy #sellwoodmoreland #intuitivehealer #reiki #integrativemedicine #naturalpainrelief #therapeuticmassage
Are you overwhelmed by all the NOISE out there whe Are you overwhelmed by all the NOISE out there when it comes to wellness hacks, trendy diets, nutritional recommendations, and general medical advice?! 🙋🏽We are!! And most of us have doctorates and masters in alternative and holistic medicine!! 🤦🏽‍♀️

While there might be some well-researched content shared online, none of it is personal to you! 
Wellness influencers and providers on social media don’t know you…they haven’t discussed your goals, learned about your personal and family history, or asked about therapies you’ve tried that have either worked or haven’t worked. And they certainly haven’t met you in person, which can provide a lot of clues about your needs.

When you really want to get results, we recommend meeting one-on-one with an educated and licensed provider, so you can get the best care and personalized advice! Plus we’ll work with you every step of the way until you’ve reached your goal!

Scheduling with a naturopathic doctor or nutritionist can be a great place to start!
Schedule using link in bio!

#naturopathicdoctor #functionalmedicine #functionalnutrition #foodasmedicine #beyourbestself #defylimits #feelbetter #feelbetterlookbetter #movebetter #lookbetterfeelbetter #sellwoodmoreland
Check out what's FoRMing in 2023! #lookbettermembe Check out what's FoRMing in 2023!
#lookbettermembership #lookbetterfeelbetter #formhealth #microneedling #prp #microcurrent #hydrodermabrasion #ipl #laser #botox #prpfacelift #prpfacial
Massage therapy is always in high demand at FoRM! Massage therapy is always in high demand at FoRM! So we’re constantly on the lookout for experienced and talented therapists to continue to deliver the high quality soft tissue work that our massage therapy team is known for!
Mission accomplished 👏🏽👏🏽
Aric Naber LMT joined the FoRM family at the end of the year to expand  our massage therapy offerings. He specializes in work with athletes to recover post-race or game, prevent injuries, and perform at their best!

Soon to be taking insurance, he currently offers discounts on cash pay and works on those who are suffering from motor vehicle injuries. 

Schedule with Aric online using link in bio or by calling 503 232 5653!

#massagetherapy #portlandmassagetherapy #portlandmassage #sellwoodmoreland #massage #motorvehicleaccident #sportsmassage #softtissuetherapy #preventinjuries #performbetter #movebetter #formhealth #formhealthpdx
If your resolution to get fit 🏋️‍♀️ thi If your resolution to get fit 🏋️‍♀️ this year is being hampered by injuries + pain 😣, don’t accept this limitation! 

Our orthopedic “Move Better” team can help you progress from hobbled to healthy!

If you think you’ve “tried everything” and just can’t get better 🤨….trust us, the right solution for you is out there!

Sometimes it takes more consistency, patience, patient education and a combination of therapies to get you better…we will help guide you every step of the way!

Scheduling with our sports chiropractor, Dr. Paul, is a great place to start- he can give you a diagnosis, educate you about the nature of injury and get you started on a plan for recovery

Often incorporating other services such as #acupuncture #dryneedling #cuppingtherapy #massagetherapy, can speed up your recovery.

And if you hit a plateau in your progress, we can help you progress with #ultrasound exam and #regenerativemedicine such as #PRP, #prolotherapy and more!

Schedule these services using link in bio or calling 503 232 5653!

#feelbetter #movebetterfeelbetter 
#sellwoodmoreland #formhealth #beyourbestself #livewithoutlimits #naturalpainrelief
On a scale of 1-10, how phenomenal was your 2022?🤷🏽‍♂️

Were you operating at top FoRM?! 🥇

If not, make sure to pay us a visit sooner than later to get you on track for an amazing 2023!

If your goals fall within the following categories…we’ve got you!:
⭐️ Feel Better
⭐️ Move Better
⭐️ Look Better

Link in bio to schedule with our providers. If you don’t know where to start, give us a call 503-232-5653!

#topform #feelbetter #feelbetterlivemore #movebetter #movebetterfeelbetter #lookbetterfeelbetter #aesthetics #sportsmedicine #functionalmedicine #liveyourbestlife #acupuncture #chiropractic #naturopathicmedicine #massagetherapy #ivtherapy #neurofeedback #nutrition
🎆Happy New Year!🎇 At FoRM, we are so fortun 🎆Happy New Year!🎇

At FoRM, we are so fortunate to work with people who aren’t afraid to blaze new trails and face challenges head on!

We are honored to work with patients and clients as they seek to defy limitations and overcome obstacles!

Thank you for allowing us to join you on your journey!!

If you’re looking to level up in 2023, we’re here to help guide you there!

Schedule online- link in bio

#trailblazer #livebetter #feelbetter #movebetter #lookbetter #feelbetterlivemore #2023goals #functionalmedicine #sellwoodmoreland #regenerativemedicine #antiage #defylimits #bestlife #chiropractic #acupuncture #naturopathicmedicine #massagetherapy #ivtherapy #prp #neurofeedback
Brutal wine hangovers can ruin holiday vibes😣. Brutal wine hangovers can ruin holiday vibes😣.
While avoiding alcohol all together might be the best move for your health…for some, that option isn’t quite as fun!
One solution…try a wine purifier, which filters out sulfites (both added and naturally occurring). Dr. Kai recommends @ullowine
Also helps to start with a good quality bottle of #oregonwine like @domaineroy 
Sulfite reactions can be a major driver of same day and next day headaches, brain fog, itchiness and congestion.
Wine filters/ purifiers make great holiday gifts if you’re in need of a last minute idea!
Happy Holidays🎄🕎
#hangoverhack #drinksmart #holidaygiftguide #holidaygifts #headachessuck #formhealth #healthiswealth #cheers #wine #oregonwinecountry #oregonwine
❄Baby, it's cold outside❄ The solution? Warm ❄Baby, it's cold outside❄

The solution? Warm it up with Red light and infrared sauna!

#redlight #redlighttherapy #sauna #saunabenefits #infraredsauna
There’s few things in life that feel better than There’s few things in life that feel better than having your face cared for by skilled hands 💆🏽
Our advanced aesthetician, O’Brien, levels up results during any skin rejuvenation treatment by integrating cranialsacral therapy into her skincare services. Cranialsacral therapy is a nerve-soothing, gentle body work technique that provides meaningful  stress relief.
This combination will leave you looking + feeling brighter and more refreshed through the holiday season!
Only a few appointments left in 2022!!
Schedule using link in bio or calling the clinic 503.232.5653.

Make sure to ask for cranial sacral therapy to be added to your session!

#skinrejuvenation #lookbetterfeelbetter #cranialsacraltherapy #advancedaesthetics #sellwoodmoreland #portlandaesthetics

Site Menu

  • About
  • Services
  • Providers
  • Contact

Patient Menu

  • New Patients
  • Patient Portal
  • Schedule Appointment
  • Contact

Phone

(503) 232-5653

Fax

(503) 234-6094

Hours

Monday–Friday 9am-6pm
Saturday 10am-2pm

Office

8113 SE 13th Ave
Portland, Oregon, 97202

Copyright © 2023 FoRM Health PDX. All Rights Reserved.

Get our newsletter