Recovery Patterns After Prolotherapy for Neck Disc Issues

Q: Recovery Patterns After Prolotherapy for Neck Disc Issues

Hello Mr. <br>Cliff： You mentioned that there is a sudden stabbing pain in a specific area of your upper left back. <br>This symptom may still warrant consideration of a localized issue. <br>If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to undergo a musculoskeletal ultrasound examinat

Recovery status after proliferative treatment?

Hello Dr.
Jiang,
I was previously diagnosed by a physician with a tear in the annulus fibrosus of my cervical disc, which has caused some mechanical protrusion affecting my peripheral nerves.
My symptoms are primarily located in the upper left back.
I am currently undergoing prolotherapy treatment, with injections administered at the tip of my scapula and the area around the junction of my cervical and thoracic spine (I'm not exactly sure which specific vertebrae were targeted).
My main concern is that my condition has been fluctuating after the prolotherapy treatment.
Most information I found online suggests that improvement should occur within a week, but I experienced significant soreness on the first day after the injection, followed by considerable relief on the second and third days.
However, starting on the fourth day, I began to feel a dull ache, and occasionally, I experience sudden sharp stabbing pain in a specific area of my upper left back (sometimes around the scapula and other times behind the ribs).
This pain seems unrelated to any specific movements and occurs unexpectedly, with a frequency of less than three times a day.
Sometimes it is quite painful, while other times it is tolerable, but I consistently feel a dull ache, especially during activities like riding a motorcycle or washing my hands.
Additionally, I find it difficult to lie on my right side while sleeping, as it causes increasing discomfort.
It has been about a week since the treatment, and I have been maintaining this sensation.
I would like to ask the doctor if these symptoms are typical after prolotherapy treatment.
I understand that dull aches may occur, but I am uncertain if the sharp pain is related to my recovery.
I appreciate your guidance on this matter.
Thank you!

Ke Li Fu, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/31

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology

Hello Mr.
Cliff: You mentioned that there is a sudden stabbing pain in a specific area of your upper left back.
This symptom may still warrant consideration of a localized issue.
If the symptoms persist, it is advisable to undergo a musculoskeletal ultrasound examination to check for any new changes in the related tissues.
Thank you for your inquiry, and feel free to discuss any related questions! Wishing you good health and peace.
Dr.
Jiang Junyi, Taoyuan Medical Center, cares about you.

Reply Date: 2023/08/31

More Info

Prolotherapy, also known as regenerative injection therapy, is a treatment designed to promote healing in areas of chronic pain, particularly in joints and connective tissues. In your case, you are undergoing prolotherapy for a cervical disc issue, specifically a tear in the annulus fibrosus and some associated nerve involvement. Understanding the recovery patterns after prolotherapy can be complex, as individual responses to treatment can vary significantly.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that the initial response to prolotherapy can include increased pain or discomfort, which is often a normal part of the healing process. The injections are intended to stimulate the body’s natural healing mechanisms, which can lead to inflammation in the treated area. This inflammation is a sign that the body is responding to the treatment, and while it may feel uncomfortable, it is often a necessary step toward recovery.

From your description, it seems that your symptoms fluctuate, which is not uncommon after prolotherapy. The pattern of feeling better initially and then experiencing discomfort again can be attributed to the healing process. The first day after the injection, you experienced soreness, which is typical as the body begins to react to the treatment. The subsequent improvement you felt on days two and three could indicate that the initial inflammatory response was subsiding. However, the return of discomfort on day four, particularly with the stabbing pain and persistent dull ache, suggests that your body is still in the process of healing.

The stabbing pain you experience intermittently could be related to several factors. It may be a result of nerve irritation or inflammation in the surrounding tissues. Since you mentioned that the pain does not seem to correlate with specific movements, it could indicate that the nerves in the area are still sensitive as they heal. This is not unusual, especially in cases where there has been prior nerve involvement due to the disc issue.

Regarding the discomfort you feel while performing certain activities, such as riding a bike or washing your hands, this could be due to the strain these actions place on your neck and upper back. It is essential to listen to your body and avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms. Additionally, sleeping positions can significantly impact neck and back pain; if lying on your right side increases discomfort, you might want to consider adjusting your sleeping posture or using supportive pillows to alleviate pressure on your neck.

In terms of recovery, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on what to expect during your recovery and help you manage any side effects or complications that may arise. It is also advisable to engage in physical therapy or rehabilitation exercises as recommended, as these can help strengthen the muscles around the affected area and improve overall function.

In conclusion, while the symptoms you are experiencing after prolotherapy can be concerning, they are not uncommon. The healing process can be nonlinear, with periods of improvement followed by setbacks. It is essential to monitor your symptoms closely and discuss any significant changes or concerns with your healthcare provider. They can help you navigate your recovery and adjust your treatment plan as necessary to ensure the best possible outcome. Remember, healing takes time, and patience is key in the recovery process.

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