Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine

Prolotherapy Near Northview, MI Non-surgical treatment for weak ligaments and tendons

Prolotherapy is an injection-based therapy that doctors use to treat many pain-related injuries and conditions.

Are You a Candidate? Call (616) 288-1109

★ 4.7 Google rating · Board-certified physicians · Rochester Hills & Grand Rapids

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Medically reviewed by Kevin M. Nemeth, MD, board-certified physician

What is prolotherapy?

Prolotherapy, also called proliferative therapy, is a non-surgical injection treatment for stretched or torn ligaments and tendons. It prompts the body’s own healing response to strengthen weakened tissue, with the goal of better joint stability and less pain. It may be an option if you want to avoid surgery or ongoing pain medication.

Prolotherapy is an injection-based therapy that doctors use to treat many pain-related injuries and conditions. It is a non-surgical treatment that may offer pain relief without the need for invasive surgical procedures.

What Is Prolotherapy And How It Works

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The prolotherapy treatments available at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine are a modern and relatively new medical practice. Prolotherapy consists of a series of injections strategically placed around affected muscles or connective tissues suffering from a myriad of conditions, which we’ll explore in this article.

How prolotherapy treatments work is a deceptively simple process for doctors and patients alike. It is a non-surgical alternative to conditions that may otherwise never recover independently or without significant medical intervention. Prolotherapy consists of a series of injections administered by a medical professional. The injections comprise a liquid suspension of some irritant, usually dextrose (a type of sugar), that is easily broken down in the body. This injection is intended to irritate the location of interest and incentivize the body to repair itself. This process will reduce pain and, after temporary inflammation, can stop further damage.

Variety Of Conditions Prolotherapy Can Help Relieve

Prolotherapy is typically used to reduce pain in musculoskeletal problems and injuries. Any condition that affects the muscles, bones, joints, or tendons can see relief from pain and discomfort using prolotherapy. Some of the most common conditions prolotherapy helps with are the following:

Arthritis In The Hands, Feet, Joints, And Spine
Fibromyalgia
Degenerative Disc Disease
Shoulder Pain
Osteoarthritis
Tennis elbow
Plantar fasciitis
Sacro-iliac joint instability or dysfunction
Lower Back Pain
Neck Pain
Rotator cuff tears
TMJ
Meniscal tears
Tendinopathy

This list represents the most common uses for prolotherapy. Many conditions can be treated by prolotherapy, which you can explore by having a consultation with one of our Board-Certified doctors.

How Common Is Prolotherapy?

A middle-aged male doctor with glasses and a stethoscope around his neck looks thoughtfully at a tablet while sitting at his desk.

Prolotherapy is a relatively new practice in the medical field, with the technique being pioneered in the 1950s. While it is still in its infancy compared to other more traditional medical treatments, many patients swear by its efficacy and potent restorative capabilities. Prolotherapy continues to gain traction and is being administered more and more each year.

What You Can Expect At A Prolotherapy Appointment

Prolotherapy is, first and foremost, an injection. After your initial consultation, your doctor will locate several injection sites and prepare the irritant solution. Most of the time, you will feel no pain and little more discomfort than you can expect from any needle injection. Small amounts of bleeding, treated by a simple bandage, may follow and quickly be sealed by your body’s regular regenerative capabilities. After the injection, you may feel the effects of inflammation and a slight numbness in the affected area. This discomfort is perfectly normal, and the inflammation is the intended effect of the therapy. Some patients may find further relief from prolotherapy symptoms with regular, over-the-counter anti-inflammation medications like Ibuprofen and Tylenol. Then that’s it! After the first few prolotherapy sessions, you should feel results in a few weeks!

Find Your Pain Relief With The Michigan Center For Regenerative Medicine

The experts at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine are Board-Certified doctors that will put your pain first and recommend a regenerative medicine treatment plan that is right for you. Even if prolotherapy isn’t suitable for you, several other regenerative medicine treatments are available from our team, which is here to fight for your pain relief.

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Conditions

Conditions Our Physicians Evaluate

Back, SI joint, and knee pain are common reasons patients ask about prolotherapy. We also evaluate shoulder, elbow, and foot problems.

Back & Neck Pain

Low back, mid-back, and neck pain linked to weak ligaments may be evaluated.

SI Joint Instability

A loose or irritated sacroiliac joint can cause low back and buttock pain.

Knee Pain & Meniscus

Ligament laxity, meniscal tears, and arthritis of the knee.

Shoulder & Rotator Cuff

Rotator cuff tears and shoulder instability.

Elbow, Wrist & Hand

Tennis elbow and wrist or hand pain from strained tissue.

Plantar Fasciitis

Heel pain from an irritated plantar fascia.

Patient reviews

What Our Patients Say

    
 
 
      Posted on Google  
   
   Peter Lynde 
 13 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent experience with Dr. Farhat at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. Experienced, knowledgeable and patient. I highly recommend him and the Center.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Cindy Jubeck 
 116 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Nabity is one of the most caring, patient, & thorough doctors around! Highly recommended he & his team!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   James R 
 126 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I cannot say anything good enough about Dr. Santa and the entire staff at Michian centers of Regentive Medicine! I suffered for 6 yrs with debilitating cervical instability in my c1- c2 through c7 area. Dr Santa Ana recommeneded PRP for me. Its has been life changing for me with just the 1st treatment. I have now gotten a second treatment because the 1st was so successful!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Christopher Micakovic 
 134 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Farhat is knowledgeable, compassionate, and genuinely cares about helping patients improve their quality of life. The office is well organized, appointments are handled professionally, and the staff is always friendly and helpful.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Gwendolyn Botardo 
 146 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Santa Ana is very kind. He demonstrates advanced professional skill in the administration of regenerative medicine. The decompression and stem cell treatment provided for my hip pathology were executed with the highest level of competence. God bless Dr. JSA, and his staff: Heidi and Jennifer, thank you for your care and compassion. The CRNA who kept me comfortable and safely sedated- Amanda{?} - sorry if I forgot your name- a testimony to your great Versed execution.  Alexus and Brie, thank you. CC: Cathy> appreciate how you easily share your peaceful zen and help to place those in your presence at ease. Awesome team! Thank you,      All ; )  ~ GBS
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Tony Coy 
 192 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr Nabity and his staff are great. They take the time to expansively listen and share knowledge about conditions, injuries, and treatments. I can tell Dr Nabity is passionate about helping his clients and avoiding surgery if possible. He’s clear about plan of action / plan of healing and that has helped me a lot! I feel more comfortable with my health and moving forward because of Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. I highly recommend.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Mary Southway 
 198 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Nabity is easy to talk to and helps a lot with his procedures. I had PRP on my Right shoulder for tear in my rotator cuff. My shoulder is feeling 99% better. Only when I over do it do I have some discomfort.Grateful that I didn’t have surgery & saw Dr Nabity.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Lise Shirtz 
 448 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Robert Farhat is extremely professional, educational & most of all cares about his patients. I went there for a tear in my shoulder, had platelet replacement therapy/surgery. (I had struggled for 6 months before this, going to PT, etc. no luck,
and I did not want regular surgery.)
I am back to lifting weights as prior to my injury, hiking etc.  I am a True believer in this type of medical procedure!
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Judith Schwagle 
 462 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dr. Nabity is awesome!  He spent over an hour with my husband and me going over my MRI’s for hip issues and all other information. He explained everything about PRP and answered all my questions. While  we were there, he even checked out my husband’s hip problem too and gave him suggestions as well. I am very pleased with the plan of action we chose together. Looking forward to healing!!
  
 
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   James Grech 
 569 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. This is only a review for the first consultation.  I met with Dr. Santa Anna and I was very impressed with his ability to explain my options after looking at my previous MRI's and also doing ultra sound on my shoulder.  I did not feel any pressure and he gave me multiple options with his opinion on what would be the best option.  I have not gotten any procedures yet and will update after I do.  This is for those that might be nervous about going here for their first consultation.
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Sherry Wood 
 983 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. After years of enduring excruciating pain and sleepless nights, I found relief at the Michigan Center For Regenerative Medicine. Chronic back and shoulder discomfort had taken a toll on my well-being, leaving me fatigued and irritable. My family even nicknamed me "Shrek" due to my constant agony. However, thanks to the expert care I received at the center, I've experienced a remarkable transformation. Following treatment for my back and shoulder, I am now able to lift my arm over my head—a simple task that had eluded me for years. Today, I am no longer plagued by pain and misery, and I finally find myself living a life filled with happiness and comfort. (from Tom Lints)
  
 
     Posted on Google  
   
   Kris Pline 
 1003 days ago
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I was having serious SI joint flares for a few months and was having a hard time working because of the pain and inability to walk very well.  I then started physical therapy but was not able to do my exercises very well because of the pain.  I heard about PRP and contacted the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine.  I was able to get PRP done the next week and it was a life saver!  I truly thought I was never going to be the same again. All the staff and Doctor Santa Ana were super kind and helpful during the procedure.  I felt better right away and have not had a flare since the procedure.  I am so thankful and recommend this to anyone with severe pain!
  
 
 
  
 
 
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In Their Words

We were amazed at how thorough the explanation of the recommended procedure was. I knew just what would happen and what I was agreeing to.

Steve G. Regenerative medicine patient

This doctor is very professional, using layman’s terms and taking his time with my parents to fully explain everything, and in answering all our questions!

Rosanna Windsor, Ontario · Family of a stem cell patient

Dr Nabity answered every question/concerns I had prior to the procedure in detail. If you leave a message for him he always calls you back himself.

Connie H. New Baltimore, MI · Stem cell patient

Excerpts from our patient testimonials.

Individual results vary. Reviews reflect each patient’s own experience.

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Your visit

Your Path to Treatment

Most visits follow four simple steps. Our team guides you through each one and answers questions along the way.

1. Consultation

Meet your physician, talk through your symptoms, and review your history and goals.

2. Diagnosis & Imaging

Ultrasound or other imaging helps identify the source of your pain.

3. Treatment

If prolotherapy fits your condition, your physician places the treatment with image guidance and plans a series of visits.

4. Follow-Up

Check-ins track your progress and adjust your plan as needed.

Start With a Consultation

Call (616) 288-1109

Insurance & cost

Insurance, Self-Pay, and Clear Pricing

We accept many major insurance plans for consultations, testing, and many spine and joint procedures. Regenerative treatments such as PRP and stem cell therapy are usually self-pay, so you get a clear estimate before you decide.

Usually billed to insurance

Consultations and office visits
EMG and nerve testing
Epidural, facet, and SI joint injections
Nerve blocks, radiofrequency ablation, and nerve stimulators

Usually self-pay

PRP and stem cell therapy (BMAC)
Prolotherapy
PRP hair restoration
Stem cell banking

Self-pay options include prompt-pay discounts, payment plans, and HSA or FSA funds for eligible expenses.

See accepted insurance PRP cost guide

Plans we accept

PPO Trust

UMR coming soon. Blue Care Network plans require a referral. Coverage varies by plan and service, so call Rochester Hills (248) 216-1008 or Grand Rapids (616) 288-1109 and we will check your benefits.

Why patients choose MCRM

Board-certified physicians Every procedure is performed by a board-certified physician, not a technician.
Image-guided precision Ultrasound or fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance places treatment exactly where it is needed.
Your own cells, prepared on site Platelets and bone marrow cells are processed in our in-house lab during your visit.
Results we track We have reported patient outcomes to the DataBiologics registry since 2019.
Clear, upfront pricing Itemized estimates before treatment, prompt-pay discounts, and payment plans.
Physicians who teach physicians Our doctors teach orthobiologic courses and helped write national back pain guidelines.

Our physicians

Meet Your Care Team

Thomas Nabity, MD
Board-certified physician

John Santa Ana, DO
Board-certified physician

Robert Farhat, DO
Board-certified physician

Kevin M. Nemeth, MD
Board-certified physician

John Steele, MD
Board-certified physician

Christopher Hannasch, DO
Board-certified physician

Credentials & memberships

Training You Can Look Up

Board certification shows a physician completed specialty training and passed independent exams. Our physicians go further, with added certifications and memberships in orthobiologics, musculoskeletal ultrasound and electrodiagnostic medicine. Each program is run by an independent organization, so you can see exactly what it requires.

PM&R Board Certification

Board certification in physical medicine and rehabilitation, the specialty focused on restoring function.

About ABPMR

Pain Medicine Board Certification

Board certification in pain medicine, covering evaluation and treatment of complex pain conditions.

About ABPM

IOF Certification Courses

Advanced knee, hip and spine certification courses in image-guided orthobiologic procedures.

About IOF courses

IOF Instructors & Training Hub

Our physicians teach other doctors as IOF instructors, and our Rochester Hills clinic hosts training.

About our training hub

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Certified in diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound, the imaging used to guide our treatments.

About RMSK

Electrodiagnostic Medicine

Board certification in electrodiagnostic medicine, the specialty behind EMG and nerve testing.

About ABEM

American Academy of PM&R

The national society for physiatrists, physicians focused on restoring movement.

About AAPM&R

Interventional Pain (ASIPP)

A society that sets education and practice standards for interventional pain medicine.

About ASIPP

Orthopaedic Medicine (AAOM)

A physician group focused on non-surgical musculoskeletal care, including prolotherapy.

About AAOM

DataBiologics Registry

We report patient outcomes to a national orthobiologics registry to track results over time.

How we track outcomes

Patient stories

Hear From Our Patients

Patients describe their own experiences with care at the Michigan Center for Regenerative Medicine. Individual results vary.

Patient Testimonial

FAQ

Prolotherapy Questions

Answers to common questions about prolotherapy. Your physician can address your specific situation during a consultation.

What is in a prolotherapy injection?

Usually a dextrose (sugar) solution combined with a local anesthetic. Your physician will explain the solution chosen for you.

How does prolotherapy work?

It creates a mild, controlled inflammation that signals the body to lay down new collagen and strengthen weakened ligaments and tendons.

How many treatments will I need?

Several treatments are usually needed. Your physician will explain the expected number for your condition.

Does prolotherapy hurt?

A local anesthetic is included to make the injection more comfortable. Mild swelling and stiffness afterward are common.

Can I take ibuprofen afterward?

Your physician may ask you to avoid anti-inflammatory medicines because they can blunt the healing response. Ask which pain relievers to use.

What conditions does prolotherapy treat?

Common examples include back and neck pain, SI joint problems, knee pain, rotator cuff tears, tennis elbow, and plantar fasciitis.

How is prolotherapy different from PRP?

Prolotherapy uses a solution such as dextrose to start a healing response. PRP uses growth factors from your own blood.

Is prolotherapy image-guided?

Our physicians use ultrasound or x-ray guidance to place treatment precisely.

Is prolotherapy covered by insurance?

Coverage varies and is often limited. Our team will give you cost information before you decide.

How do I schedule a consultation?

Call (248) 216-1008 for Rochester Hills or (616) 288-1109 for Grand Rapids, or use the short form on this page.

A doctor in a white coat talks to a patient while holding a digital tablet.

Still Have Questions?

Talk with our team about whether prolotherapy may fit your condition.

Grand Rapids: (616) 288-1109
Rochester Hills: (248) 216-1008

Are You a Candidate?

Keep learning

Find Out if Prolotherapy Is Right for You

Answer a few short questions and our team will contact you to schedule a consultation.

Share your symptoms and goals in the short form.

Our team contacts you to schedule a consultation.

Meet a board-certified physician in Grand Rapids or Rochester Hills.

★ 4.7 Google ratingBoard-certified physiciansTwo Michigan clinics

Prefer to talk?Rochester Hills (248) 216-1008Grand Rapids (616) 288-1109

Free webinar replay

Watch: Regenerative Medicine for Arthritis and Injury Repair

Watch the replay of our physicians’ webinar on regenerative options for arthritis and injuries.

Our physicians host free webinars with live Q&A. Watch any past webinar on demand, or call us to ask about the next date.

Watch Past Webinars Ask about upcoming dates

Our locations

Visit Our Michigan Clinics

Rochester Hills Clinic

355 Barclay Cir, Suite A
Rochester Hills, MI 48307

(248) 216-1008

Monday–Friday, 9:00 am–4:30 pm

Get directions View clinic details

Grand Rapids Clinic

1000 E. Paris Ave SE, Suite 221
Grand Rapids, MI 49546

(616) 288-1109