Neural Prolotherapy Or Perineural Injection Therapy
What is NPT?
It is a relatively new injection therapy aimed at treating neuropathic pain. Neural Prolotherapy promotes healing of cutaneous nerves and restores tissue function. It is currently believed that therapy works on the capsaicin (or TRPV1) pain receptors of the free nerve endings of C-fibers in our connective tissue.
When connective tissue is injured, it releases pro-inflammatory substances that activate the TRPV1 channel on nerve endings. It results in the release of substances that causes inflammation, swelling, hypersensitivity, and painful sensations. This can happen following trauma or repetitive strain throughout the whole body as connective tissue is omnipresent. NPT inhibits the TRPV1 nerve receptors, prevents this cascade and restores normal nerve function.
What to expect from this treatment?
Neural Prolotherapy is generally very well tolerated. The injections are administered with very small and short needles along the course of subcutaneous nerves. Some points may cause mild discomfort, but generally, the discomfort only lasts a few minutes.
Most patients notice an immediate reduction of pain after the first injection. This initial analgesic effect may last anywhere between hours to days, allowing the patient to start an exercise program aimed at further improving tissue healing. Most patients respond to 3-4 treatments depending on how long the injury has been present as well as the degree of the damage.
Is this treatment safe and effective?
It is considered safe when administered by a properly trained physician. Dr Sohagia has been using prolotherapy since 2009. Procedure is performed under aseptic conditions to minimize the risk of infection. He uses ultrasound guidance for less superficial body parts or when injecting close to a nerve or large blood vessel.
Possible adverse effects include local swelling, bruising and mild temporary pain.
Who is a good candidate for NPT?
Neural Prolotherapy is effective in treating nerve pain associated with injuries to joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Treatment area: neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist (carpal tunnel), hand, back, hip, knee, ankle and foot.