For those who don’t know, treatment for prolotherapy includes a series of injections into tendons, ligaments, or joints to encourage the growth of connective tissues in the body. There are a couple of side effects and risks associated with this procedure, just like any medical procedure. However, you should not worry since the risks are low. This is particularly true if you compare it to the risks of surgeries.  

Today, we are going to share with you some things you have to know about DFW Prolotherapy. 

General Side Effects of the Procedure 

Infection is the most common risk of prolotherapy. This occurs whenever bacteria enter any openings in the skin. This includes the breaks caused by prolotherapy needle injection. There are a couple of things you have to check to recognize a possible infection after prolotherapy. This includes: 

  • Odor 
  • A leak coming from the injection area (green or yellow in color) 
  • Warmth 
  • Red streaks 
  • Change in injection size 
  • Discoloration 

Also, you might experience light-headedness and fever. You should see a physician immediately for treatment if you think you’ve developed an infection. You might require antibiotics or other treatments to manage the infection. 

You can prevent infection. All you have to do is to maintain excellent hygiene during, after, and before the prolotherapy procedure. You have to ensure you hire a medical professional who does everything possible to avoid the risk of infection by maintaining the cleanliness of the injection site for the procedure.  

Risks to the Spine 

Prolotherapy for the neck and back presents a bigger risk for complications compared to other areas. The reason for this is because of the spinal cord proximity. The possibility of permanent nerve damage is small. However, it does happen. The risks from prolotherapy to this area are still lower compared to the risks associated with neck or back surgery. You shouldn’t hesitate to ask the medical professional during the consultation if you’ve got any inquiries about prolotherapy.  

Spinal headaches happen if the injection interrupts the spine’s pressure system. Luckily, oftentimes, the headache goes away on its own within 4-6 weeks. Additional treatment might be needed if a spinal headache persists for a long period.  

Other Side Effects of Prolotherapy 

Stiffness and pain around the injection site are common. They are only temporary. The reason for this is because of the inflammation process starting to take effect and is beginning to heal the area. 

The only risks from prolotherapy are often swelling at the injection site, some bleeding, or superficial bruising. Pain might last for several days before going away. Medication might be prescribed to lower the pain if discomfort lasts longer than a week. 

You can easily avoid these side effects if you hire the right medical professional to perform the injection. You have to make sure they are certified and legitimate. You should not get enticed by affordable prices when it comes to prolotherapy. You have to emphasize the quality of the medical professional first before you consider the price. This will help avoid any complications down the road.