Hackett Hemwall Prolotherapy: The technique used by Dr. Seema Kanwal
Hackett-Hemwall Prolotherapy incorporates the teaching and techniques of doctors George S. Hackett, MD and Gustav A. Hemwall, MD. Prolotherapy treats chronic tendon and ligament instability or weakness. The weakend areas are injected with a proliferant solution that in turn stimulates the growth of stronger tissues. The healing process takes approximately four to six weeks after the initial treatment. As the tissues, tendons and ligaments, grow stronger and more capable of doing their tasks, the pain is alleviated, and potentially eliminated.
FAQs about Prolotherapy.
How does this compare to cortisone injections? Is this the same thing?”
I do not use cortisone with any of my patients. Long term studies have shown that cortisone injections weaken tissues. Prolotherapy solutions, called proliferants, cause the tendons and ligaments to be stronger.
Will this treatment work for chronic headaches or Migraines?
Migraines are often caused by ligament injuries to the neck. This same injury can also be the cause of other symptoms, including pain that reaches almost any part of the head and neck, visibility changes, dizziness, tinnitis, and loss of balance. Migraines caused by ligament injury can be effectively treated with Prolotherapy. I also address hormonal or nutritional factors that may be contributing to the migraines as well.
Can you help with Sciatic pain?
The most common cause of pain radiating down the legs is actually not sciatica, or sciatic nerve injury, but a weakness or injury to the ligaments that support the pelvic joint. This radiating or “referred pain” can be effectively treated with Prolotherapy.
How many treatments will I need?
The number of treatments varies with each patient. Many of my patients have reported partial or complete relief of pain after only one treatment. Patients with a healthy immune system typically require fewer treatments. The average person requires 4 to 6 treatment sessions given at 4 to 6 week intervals. I do encourage my patients to do everything that they can to heal, including eating a healthy diet, taking nutritional supplements, getting lots of sleep, not smoking, continuing their exercise, and keeping stress in control.
Prolotherapy is a safe procedure. The risks are far less than taking Aspirin or Ibuprofen for a lifetime to temporarily alleviate chronic pain. However, as in any medical procedure involving needles, there is at least a slight risk. In Prolotherapy, the risks and side effects will vary depending on the area being treated, and Dr. Kanwal always will discuss these possibilities fully with patients in the initial consultation visit.
Insurance coverage of Prolotherapy varies widely depending on your insurance provider. It is better to check your own individual provider.