Prolotherapy vs Cortisone
Prolotherapy vs Cortisone: Which Is Right For You?
Cortisone injections have been a standard treatment for joint and back pain for decades – and in the right circumstances, they have a role. But for patients seeking lasting relief rather than temporary pain suppression, regenerative treatments such as prolotherapy and prolozone offer a fundamentally different approach.
How Prolotherapy Works
Prolotherapy works on a different principle. A small amount of dextrose solution is injected precisely into the damaged ligament, tendon, disc or joint. This creates a mild, controlled inflammatory response – which triggers the bodyโs own repair cascade, stimulating the growth of new collagen and connective tissue.
The result is not temporary pain suppression but structural repair. Patients typically require a course of three to six treatments, spaced three to five weeks apart. Most notice gradual and progressive improvement across the course, with lasting results.
Comparison Table
| Cortisone | Prolotherapy | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Suppresses inflammation | Stimulates healing response |
| Speed of relief | Fast (days) | Gradual (weeks) |
| Duration of effect | Weeks to months | Long-lasting (often permanent) |
| Tissue effect | Can weaken tissue over time | Builds new collagen/connective tissue |
| Number of treatments | Limited (max 3-4 per site) | Course of 3-6 recommended |
| NHS availability | Yes | No (private only) |
| Suitable for acute flare-ups | Yes | Occasionally, case by case |
| Suitable for chronic/structural pain | Less so | Yes – this is its primary use |
What Proback Recommends
At Proback, we do not use cortisone injections. Our clinical philosophy is to work with the body rather than against it. For most chronic musculoskeletal conditions, we find prolotherapy – often combined with ozone (prolozone) – delivers superior long-term outcomes.
That said, we recognise that cortisone has a place in acute pain management, and we will always give you an honest picture of your options at your initial consultation.
Is Prolotherapy Right For You?
Prolotherapy may be suitable if:
- You have had cortisone injections that worked temporarily but the pain returned
- You have been told you need surgery but want to try a non-surgical option first
- You have chronic joint, back or tendon pain that has not resolved with physiotherapy
- You have been told your condition is not severe enough for surgery but you are still in pain
Book a consultation from ยฃ110
Not sure which treatment is right for you? Book a consultation from ยฃ110 – we will assess your case fully and give you an honest, evidence-based recommendation.
FAQs
We recommend waiting at least six weeks after a cortisone injection before beginning prolotherapy, as cortisone can interfere with the healing response.
Most patients describe the injections as tolerable. A mild ache or stiffness in the days following is normal and is a sign the healing response has been triggered.
Prolotherapy is a greater upfront investment than a single cortisone injection. However, for patients who would otherwise be returning for repeated cortisone courses or progressing toward surgery, many find it more costeffective over time.
No. Prolotherapy and prolozone are available at specialist private clinics, including Proback Victoria.
Use the form below to book a consultation.
Consultation includes examination, X-ray (if required) and results.
We typically reply within 60 minutes during opening hours.
Patient Stories
9/10 Recommend Us
SYMPTOMS
Back Pain
TREATMENT
Spinal Decompression Therapy
Whilst working on her dadโs farm, 17 years ago, Sandra heard a loud crack in her back. Sandra had 6 steroid injections. She tried Physiotherapy, acupuncture and more but nothing helped. She kept getting worse and worse. The effect the pain was having spread beyond just Sandra. It was hurting everyone who loved her.
Award-Winning Treatments
Advanced Regenerative Medicine & Non-Surgical Treatments
Inside Proback
5 Minutes From London Victoria Station
Use the form below to book a consultation.
Consultation includes examination, X-ray (if required) and results.
We typically reply within 60 minutes during opening hours.
Accreditations
How To Find Us
4 Evelyn Mansions,
Carlisle Place, Victoria,
London SW1P 1NH
Opening Times
Weekdays 8.30am - 8pm
Saturday 9am - 3pm
020 7976 6648
