Prolotherapy has always mystified me. Well, I shouldn't say prolotherapy per say but rather the lack of attention it gets as a potential solution to help people with back pain.

In case you don't know, prolotherapy involves the injection of minerals, dextrose, salene or some other natural substance to stimulate the growth of collagen in order to strengthen weakened or damaged joints, ligaments, tendons or muscles.

Prolotherapy is most successful in reducing pain when combined with a proper diet consisting of antioxidants and the correct balance of Omega-3 and Omega-6 Essential Fatty Acids.

A pretty simple concept really that research has substantiated over the past 50 years.

So why does it not get the respect it so deserves?

Simply because it doesn't make much financial sense to those who stand to gain or profit. Many of the substances used in prolotherapy are not allowed to be patented. This is a major deterrent especially to certain drug companies who want to close the door on their competition before investing millions of dollars to offer up a new drug creation.

So now that you know about it, is prolotherapy right for back pain sufferers?

The answer is maybe. It could be what people really need to end their back pain. It could be a safe and alternative solution to the regular use of prescription and over-the-counter drugs that have a neverending list of side effects.

Several studies for the past 50 years have revealed just how helpful prolotherapy can be especially for low back pain sufferers. One study, in particular, resulted in an 88% success rate.

These studies also prove the long-lasting effects that prolotherapy has on back pain sufferers. This is not just a temporary solution. It has the potential to be a permanment and healthy solution that people so desperately need.

Prolotherapy has helped people with all kinds of back pain including herniated discs, sacroiliac sprain, sciatica, whiplash, scoliosis and many others.

It is also known to help people with arthritis, bursitis, Carpal tunnel syndrome, ligament and tendon tears, tendonitis, fibromyalgia and even headaches.

Prolotherapy also comes with a reduced risk of side effects. It is not as costly as surgery and pain-relieving results are usually noticeable in the first week; however some people may require more time or even several treatments.

Unfortunately, prolotherapy may not work for everyone. According to Dr. William Faber, D.O., Director of the Milwaukee Pain Clinic in Wisconsin and leading authority in the field of prolotherapy, some patients may have a pre-existing condition which inhibits the body's natural healing process. They may have an infection. They may also have a history of using cortisone shots which may interfere with the effectiveness of prolotherapy.

Prolotherapy stands an excellent chance at being a valuable tool of medicine in the future. It gives back pain sufferers a wonderful natural and affordable alternative to drugs and surgery with a reduced risk of side effects. Lastly, it may offer millions of people a true, permanent long-term solution to ending back pain.