SoftWave therapy is a needle-free, drug-free treatment that uses shockwaves to ease pain and jump-start healing. See how it works and if it's right for you. 

If you've been living with chronic pain and feel stuck between medication that only masks it and surgery you'd rather avoid, you may have come across SoftWave therapy while searching for another option. But what is SoftWave therapy, how does it work, and does it actually help? This guide breaks it down in plain language.
What is SoftWave therapy?
SoftWave therapy is a non-invasive, needle-free and drug-free treatment that uses patented, FDA-cleared shockwave technology to reduce pain and support your body's natural healing process. It belongs to a category of treatment called extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT), which has been used in medicine for decades — originally to break up kidney stones, and later to treat stubborn musculoskeletal problems.
Unlike many focused shockwave devices, SoftWave delivers broad, low-intensity acoustic waves that spread through a wider area of tissue. There are no incisions, no injections, and no downtime — most people walk in and out of a session and return to their day.
How does SoftWave therapy work?
The shockwaves create a mechanical signal in your tissue that triggers a biological response. In practical terms, SoftWave is designed to do three things:

• Stimulate your own stem cells. The waves are intended to activate and recruit the body's resident stem cells toward the treated area to support tissue repair.
• Increase blood flow. Improved circulation brings oxygen and nutrients to areas that have struggled to heal on their own.
• Reduce inflammation. By calming inflammation and stimulating tissue, many patients experience less pain over a course of sessions.

This is the key difference from painkillers or cortisone: rather than only muting the pain signal, SoftWave is aimed at the underlying tissue so your body can do the repair work itself.
Does SoftWave therapy work — and how fast?
Results vary from person to person and depend on the condition, its severity, and how long you've had it. Some patients notice a change within the first or second session, while others need a full series of treatments before they feel a meaningful difference. It is not a magic wand — but for the right candidate it can be a powerful, low-risk alternative to more aggressive options. You can read real patient experiences on our testimonials page.
What can SoftWave therapy help with?
SoftWave is most often used for musculoskeletal and soft-tissue pain, including plantar fasciitis, Achilles and other tendon problems, knee and shoulder pain, and general chronic pain that hasn't responded to rest, physical therapy, or medication. It's one of several regenerative-style options we offer alongside treatments like Prolozone and prolotherapy — you can compare them all on our treatments page.
SoftWave therapy in Farmington Hills, MI
At Michigan Ozone Center in Farmington Hills, we offer SoftWave therapy to patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit who want a non-surgical, medication-free path to pain relief. If you're weighing your options, the best first step is a conversation about your specific situation.
Curious whether SoftWave is right for you?
Learn more about our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation. Call 248-804-2616 today.
Frequently Asked Questions

​Is SoftWave therapy painful?
Most patients describe it as a tapping or pulsing sensation rather than pain. It is non-invasive and needle-free, and there is no recovery time afterward.
How many SoftWave sessions will I need?
It depends on the condition and how long you've had it. Many treatment plans run a series of sessions spaced over several weeks. Your provider will recommend a plan after evaluating you.
Is SoftWave the same as a regular shockwave machine?
SoftWave is a specific patented form of shockwave (ESWT) technology that uses broad, unfocused waves. Not all shockwave devices are the same in how they deliver energy.
Does SoftWave therapy have side effects?
Because it is non-invasive, side effects are typically minor and short-lived, such as mild redness or temporary soreness in the treated area. Your provider will review any considerations for you.

​Struggling with heel pain? Learn how shockwave therapy treats plantar fasciitis without injections or surgery, and what to expect. Free consult in Michigan.  

​That sharp, stabbing heel pain with your first steps in the morning is the hallmark of plantar fasciitis — and if you've tried stretching, orthotics, and rest without lasting relief, you're not alone. Before you consider cortisone injections or surgery, it's worth understanding how shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis works and why more patients are choosing it.
What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is inflammation and micro-damage of the plantar fascia, the thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot from your heel to your toes. It's one of the most common causes of heel pain, and it often becomes chronic because the fascia has limited blood supply and struggles to heal on its own.
Why standard plantar fasciitis treatment sometimes fails
Typical first-line treatment for plantar fasciitis includes rest, stretching, night splints, orthotics, and anti-inflammatory medication. These help many people — but when the condition has been around for months, the tissue often needs more than rest to repair. That's where regenerative approaches come in.
How shockwave therapy treats plantar fasciitis
Shockwave therapy — including the SoftWave technology we use — delivers acoustic waves into the damaged fascia. This is designed to:

• Stimulate blood flow to a notoriously poorly-circulated area of tissue
• Trigger the body's own repair response, including stem cell activity
• Break the cycle of chronic inflammation that keeps heel pain going

Crucially, it does this without needles, medication, or downtime — you can walk out and go about your day. For patients who want to avoid a cortisone shot or foot surgery, it's a compelling middle path.
Is shockwave therapy a good option for you?
Shockwave therapy tends to be a strong fit for people with persistent plantar fasciitis that hasn't responded to conservative care and who want to avoid injections or surgery. It's one of several non-surgical, needle-free tools we use for chronic pain. A quick evaluation is the best way to know if you're a candidate — see our pricing for what a course of treatment involves.
Heel pain relief in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center serves patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit who are tired of heel pain running their lives. Our clinical team can assess your feet and tell you honestly whether SoftWave therapy is likely to help.
Ready to take the first step without heel pain?
Discover our needle-free SoftWave therapy for plantar fasciitis and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many shockwave sessions does plantar fasciitis usually need?
Many plantar fasciitis plans involve a series of sessions over several weeks. The exact number depends on how severe and how long-standing your heel pain is.
Is shockwave therapy better than a cortisone shot for plantar fasciitis?
They work differently. Cortisone reduces inflammation temporarily, while shockwave therapy aims to stimulate actual tissue repair without medication. Many patients prefer to try the needle-free option first.
Can I walk after a shockwave session?
Yes. Shockwave therapy is non-invasive with no downtime, so you can typically resume normal activity right away.
Will shockwave therapy cure my plantar fasciitis permanently?
No treatment can promise a permanent cure, and results vary. The goal is to support healing of the fascia and provide lasting relief for suitable candidates. A consultation will set realistic expectations.

​Tendonitis that won't heal? Learn why chronic tendon pain lingers and how non-surgical, needle-free treatment can help without cortisone. Free consult in MI.

Whether it's your shoulder, elbow, knee, or Achilles, tendonitis that drags on for months is exhausting — and repeated cortisone shots aren't a great long-term answer. If you're looking for effective tendonitis treatment that doesn't rely on injections or surgery, here's what you need to know.
Why does tendonitis become chronic?
Tendonitis (more accurately, tendinopathy when it's long-standing) is irritation and breakdown of a tendon from overuse or strain. Tendons have relatively poor blood supply, so once they're damaged they can be slow to repair. Rest helps in the early stage, but chronic cases often stall — the tissue simply isn't getting the healing resources it needs.
The problem with relying on cortisone
Cortisone injections can calm inflammation and provide short-term relief, but they don't rebuild tendon tissue — and repeated shots may actually weaken the tendon over time. That's why many patients look for an option that supports healing rather than just muting symptoms. (More on this in our guide to cortisone alternatives.)
How shockwave therapy helps tendon healing
Shockwave therapy is one of the better-studied non-surgical options for stubborn tendon pain. The SoftWave technology we use delivers acoustic waves into the tendon to:

• Boost blood flow to poorly-circulated tendon tissue
• Stimulate the body's repair response and stem cell activity
• Interrupt chronic inflammation and reduce pain over a treatment course

It's needle-free, drug-free, and requires no downtime — which is why it appeals to active people who can't afford weeks on the sidelines. For appropriate cases we may also discuss regenerative injection options like prolotherapy or Prolozone, and PRP — you can compare all of these on our treatments page.
Which tendons can it help?
Shockwave is commonly used for shoulder (rotator cuff) tendonitis, tennis and golfer's elbow, patellar (knee) tendonitis, and Achilles tendonitis, among others. As with any therapy, results depend on the individual. We treat tendon problems as part of our broader chronic pain care.
Tendonitis treatment in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center helps patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit get back to the activities they love without surgery or a cabinet full of medication. Start with an honest assessment of your tendon.
Tired of tendon pain that won't quit?
Explore our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
​How long does it take shockwave therapy to heal tendonitis?
Tendons heal slowly. Most plans run a series of weekly sessions, and improvement often continues for weeks after the course finishes as the tissue repairs.
Is shockwave therapy better than cortisone for tendonitis?
They serve different purposes. Cortisone offers short-term inflammation control; shockwave aims to stimulate tendon repair without medication. Many patients prefer to avoid repeated cortisone shots.
Does shockwave therapy hurt?
You'll feel a strong tapping sensation during treatment, and the area may be mildly sore afterward, but it's non-invasive and needle-free.
Can I keep exercising during treatment?
Your provider will give activity guidance based on your tendon. Often you can stay active with modifications, since there's no downtime from the therapy itself.

​Burning, tingling, numb feet? Explore newer drug-free treatment options for neuropathy in the feet and how non-invasive therapy may help. Free consult in MI. 

​Burning, tingling, numbness, or a "pins and needles" feeling in your feet can make everyday life miserable — and if medication has left you with side effects or limited relief, you may be searching for another route. This guide covers treatment for neuropathy in the feet, including newer drug-free options and how non-invasive therapy may fit in.
What causes neuropathy in the feet?
Peripheral neuropathy is nerve damage that most often shows up in the feet and lower legs. Common causes include diabetes, poor circulation, injury, chemotherapy, and nerve compression. Because nerves and the tissue around them can have compromised blood flow, symptoms often persist and gradually worsen without intervention.
Common medical treatments — and their limits
Standard treatment for neuropathy in the feet usually focuses on managing the underlying cause (for example, controlling blood sugar) and easing symptoms with medications such as gabapentin or pain relievers. These can help, but they treat the symptom rather than the tissue, and many patients dislike the drowsiness and other side effects.
Newer, drug-free approaches to neuropathy
Interest has grown in non-drug options that target circulation and tissue health. Non-invasive shockwave therapy — including the SoftWave technology we use — is being explored for exactly this reason. It's designed to:

• Increase blood flow to oxygen-starved tissue in the feet
• Stimulate the body's natural repair signals and stem cell activity
• Reduce inflammation around affected nerves

It's important to be realistic: neuropathy is complex, evidence is still developing, and no responsible clinic can promise a cure. But for patients who want a needle-free, drug-free option to try alongside proper medical management, it's worth a conversation. We also offer complementary supportive therapies such as IV and vitamin drips and ozone therapy.
Is it right for you?
The best candidates have talked with their physician about the cause of their neuropathy and want to add a non-invasive option focused on circulation and tissue health. We treat neuropathy as part of our broader chronic pain care, and we'll give you an honest assessment of whether we can help.
Neuropathy support in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center works with patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit who are frustrated with numb, painful feet and want options beyond another prescription. A consultation is the right place to start.
Want a drug-free option for neuropathy?
Learn about our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can neuropathy in the feet be reversed?
It depends on the cause and how advanced it is. Some nerve damage can improve, especially when circulation and the underlying cause are addressed, but outcomes vary and should be discussed with your provider.
Is shockwave therapy safe for diabetic neuropathy?
Non-invasive shockwave therapy is generally well tolerated, but diabetic patients should always be evaluated individually. Bring your medical history to your consultation.
How is this different from medication for neuropathy?
Medication mainly dampens nerve pain signals. Non-invasive therapy focuses on improving blood flow and tissue health, and it's drug-free — so it can be used alongside your other care.
Will I feel results right away?
Some patients notice changes early in a treatment course, while others need more sessions. Nerve tissue heals slowly, so patience and realistic expectations matter.

Facing knee replacement? Learn what helps bone-on-bone knee pain without surgery, including non-invasive, needle-free options. Free consult in Michigan.

Being told your knee is "bone on bone" can feel like surgery is the only road left. But many people want to know what helps bone-on-bone knee pain without surgery before committing to a knee replacement. Here are the non-surgical options worth understanding.
What "bone on bone" actually means
"Bone on bone" describes advanced knee osteoarthritis, where the cartilage that cushions the joint has worn away and the bones rub together. It causes pain, stiffness, and swelling. Surgery can help in severe cases — but it's major, it carries risks, and recovery is long, so it's reasonable to explore alternatives first.
Non-surgical options for knee pain
Depending on your situation, conservative and regenerative options may include:

• Physical therapy and weight management to reduce load on the joint
• Non-invasive shockwave therapy to reduce pain and stimulate healing signals in surrounding tissue
• Regenerative injections such as Prolozone, prolotherapy, or PRP

These won't regrow a whole joint, and severe arthritis may still ultimately need surgery — but for many people they can meaningfully reduce pain and delay or avoid the operating room.
How SoftWave therapy fits in
SoftWave is a needle-free, drug-free shockwave therapy designed to reduce pain, increase blood flow, and stimulate the body's own repair response in the tissues around the knee. Because it's non-invasive with no downtime, it's a low-risk option to try before more aggressive interventions. It's part of how we approach chronic pain at our clinic.
Setting realistic expectations
A responsible clinic won't promise to reverse advanced arthritis. The goal is pain reduction and improved function so you can stay active and delay surgery where possible. A proper evaluation — including imaging your physician may already have — is essential to know what's realistic for your knee.
Knee pain relief in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center helps patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit explore every reasonable option before surgery. If you've been told you need a knee replacement, it's worth a second conversation.
Want to explore non-surgical knee options?
Learn about our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
​Can you fix bone-on-bone knee pain without surgery?
You can't regrow lost cartilage, but non-surgical options can often reduce pain and improve function, which helps many people delay or avoid surgery. Results depend on severity.
What is the best alternative to knee replacement?
There's no single best option — it depends on your joint. Common alternatives include physical therapy, weight management, shockwave therapy, and regenerative injections, sometimes in combination.
Is shockwave therapy effective for knee arthritis?
It can help reduce pain and support tissue health for suitable patients. It works best as part of a broader plan and won't reverse advanced joint damage on its own.
How do I know if I'm a candidate?
A consultation and review of your history and any imaging is the best way to know. We'll be honest if surgery is the more appropriate route.

​Worried about cortisone shot side effects? Learn the risks of repeated injections and drug-free, regenerative alternatives for lasting pain relief. Free consult.

Cortisone injections are one of the most common tools for joint and tendon pain, and they can work well in the short term. But if you're researching cortisone shot side effects, you're probably wondering whether repeated shots are a good idea — and what else you could try. Here's a balanced look.
What cortisone shots do
Cortisone is a powerful anti-inflammatory. Injected into a joint or around a tendon, it can reduce inflammation and pain quickly. For a flare-up, that relief can be genuinely valuable. The catch is what happens with repeated use.
Common cortisone shot side effects
Reported side effects and downsides of cortisone injections include:

• Temporary pain or a "cortisone flare" in the first day or two
• Thinning or lightening of the skin at the injection site
• Elevated blood sugar, which matters for people with diabetes
• With repeated shots, potential weakening of tendons and cartilage over time
• Relief that fades, leading to a cycle of more and more injections

The bigger-picture issue is that cortisone treats inflammation, not the underlying tissue damage — so the problem often returns.
Drug-free and regenerative alternatives
If you'd rather support healing than repeat injections, several options aim to do exactly that:

• SoftWave shockwave therapy — a needle-free, drug-free way to reduce pain and stimulate the body's repair response
• Prolotherapy and Prolozone — regenerative injections that aim to strengthen tissue
• PRP — using your own platelet-rich plasma to support healing

The right choice depends on your diagnosis and goals. Many patients like starting with the needle-free option and reserving injections for later if needed.
A drug-free path in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center works with patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit who want alternatives to a cycle of cortisone shots. We'll help you understand which approach fits your chronic pain.
Want an alternative to another cortisone shot?
Explore our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
​How many cortisone shots are safe in one joint?
Guidance varies, but many clinicians limit injections in a single joint per year because of potential effects on cartilage and tendons. Ask your provider about your specific situation.
Is shockwave therapy a good alternative to cortisone?
For many tendon and joint problems, yes — it's drug-free and aims to support healing rather than just reduce inflammation. Suitability depends on your diagnosis.
Do cortisone shots cause long-term damage?
A single well-placed shot is usually low-risk. Repeated injections over time may weaken tendons and cartilage, which is why many patients seek alternatives.
Can I combine cortisone with regenerative treatments?
Sometimes, but timing matters. Discuss any recent or planned cortisone injections during your consultation so your plan is coordinated safely.

​Explore non-surgical treatment for chronic lower back pain, including needle-free, drug-free options that support healing. Free consult in Farmington Hills, MI.  

Chronic lower back pain wears you down — and surgery is a big, risky step most people want to avoid. The good news is there are meaningful non-surgical treatments for lower back pain worth trying first. Here's an overview of your options, including needle-free approaches.
Why lower back pain becomes chronic
Lower back pain has many causes: muscle strain, disc issues, arthritis, poor posture, and weak core support among them. When pain lasts more than a few months, it's considered chronic, and it often involves a mix of inflammation, tissue irritation, and deconditioning that feed off each other.
Non-surgical options to consider
Before surgery, most guidelines recommend exhausting conservative and minimally-invasive options, such as:

• Physical therapy and targeted exercise to build support and mobility
• Non-invasive shockwave therapy to reduce pain and stimulate healing in soft tissue
• Regenerative injections like Prolozone or prolotherapy for suitable cases
• Lifestyle changes including weight management and ergonomics

Where SoftWave therapy fits
SoftWave is a needle-free, drug-free shockwave therapy that targets painful soft tissue to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow, and stimulate the body's own repair response. Because it's non-invasive with no downtime, it's a low-risk option to try as part of a broader back-pain plan. We treat back pain within our overall chronic pain care.
Setting expectations
Not all back pain has the same cause, so the right plan varies — and some conditions do require a surgeon. A thorough evaluation, including any imaging you already have, helps identify what's driving your pain and whether a non-surgical approach is likely to help.
Lower back pain care in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center helps patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit pursue non-surgical relief for stubborn back pain. Start with a conversation about what's really going on.
Want relief without back surgery?
Learn about our needle-free SoftWave therapy and book a FREE consultation at 248-804-2616.
Frequently Asked Questions
​Can chronic lower back pain be treated without surgery?
Very often, yes. Most cases improve with a combination of conservative and minimally-invasive care. Surgery is usually reserved for specific structural problems.
Is shockwave therapy used for back pain?
Yes, non-invasive shockwave therapy can be used to target painful soft tissue in the back as part of a broader treatment plan. Suitability depends on the cause of your pain.
How long before I feel better?
It varies with the cause and how long you've had pain. Some people improve within a few sessions; chronic cases can take longer and benefit from combined approaches.
What if my pain is from a disc problem?
Some disc-related pain responds to conservative care, but certain findings need specialist evaluation. We'll tell you honestly if you should see a spine specialist.

​How much does SoftWave therapy cost, and is it covered by insurance? Learn what affects pricing and how to plan for needle-free treatment. Free consult in MI.

If SoftWave therapy sounds promising, the next practical question is usually about money: how much does SoftWave therapy cost, and will insurance cover it? Here's a clear, honest overview so you can plan.
What affects the cost of SoftWave therapy?
There's no single price, because the cost depends on several factors:

• The condition being treated — a simple issue may need fewer sessions than a chronic one
• The number of sessions — most plans are a series, not a one-off
• The treatment area — larger or multiple areas can affect the plan
• Your overall care plan — SoftWave is sometimes combined with other therapies

Because of this, the most accurate way to understand your cost is a personalized quote after an evaluation. Our current pricing information is available online and we're happy to walk you through it.
Is SoftWave therapy covered by insurance?
In most cases, shockwave therapies like SoftWave are considered elective and are not typically covered by standard insurance plans, though this can vary by insurer and situation. Many patients use HSA or FSA funds, and some clinics offer package pricing to make a full course more affordable. Always check directly with your insurer about your specific plan.
Is it worth the cost?
That's a personal decision, but many patients weigh SoftWave against the ongoing cost — financial and physical — of medications, repeated cortisone injections, or surgery with a long recovery. Because it's needle-free, drug-free, and non-invasive with no downtime, the value calculation often looks different than it first appears. Real patient experiences are on our testimonials page.
How to get an accurate quote
The simplest path is a free consultation. We'll evaluate your condition, recommend a realistic treatment plan, and give you clear pricing before you commit to anything. You can reach us through our contact page or by phone.
SoftWave therapy pricing in Farmington Hills, MI
Michigan Ozone Center serves patients across Oakland County and Metro Detroit, and we offer a FREE consultation so you can understand your options and costs with no pressure.
Want clear pricing for your situation?
Book a FREE consultation for our needle-free SoftWave therapy — call 248-804-2616 today.
Frequently Asked Questions
​How much does SoftWave therapy cost per session?
It varies by clinic, condition, and plan, and most treatment is sold as a series rather than single sessions. The best way to get an accurate figure is a personalized quote.
Is SoftWave therapy covered by insurance?
It's usually considered elective and not typically covered, though this varies. Many patients use HSA/FSA funds or package pricing. Check with your insurer for your specific plan.
Why is SoftWave sold in packages?
Because most conditions need a series of sessions to see results, package or plan pricing is common and often more economical than paying per visit.
Do you offer a free consultation?
Yes. We offer a free consultation so you can understand whether SoftWave is right for you and get clear pricing before committing.

​Wondering what ozone therapy costs in Michigan? Learn what affects pricing, why the number of sessions matters, and how to plan — from Michigan Ozone Center in Farmington Hills.

​Cost is one of the first things people want to know when they consider ozone therapy. It is a reasonable question — but there is no single national price tag, because the right plan looks different for every person. This guide explains what actually drives the cost so you can plan with realistic expectations and get an accurate quote for your situation.
Why there is no one-size-fits-all priceOzone therapy is not a single product; it is a category of treatments delivered in different ways. The cost depends on what you are addressing, how it is administered, and how many sessions are involved. Two people walking into the same clinic can end up with very different plans — and different totals — because their situations differ.
That is why a consultation matters: it is the only way to turn a vague “how much?” into a real, personalized number.
What affects the cost of ozone therapyThe most common factors include:

• Method of delivery — an injection-based approach such as Prolozone® differs from an IV-based approach, and pricing reflects that.
• Number of sessions — many wellness plans involve more than one visit; the total depends on how many are recommended for you.
• The area or concern being addressed — a single localized area is different from a broader plan.
• Add-ons — some plans combine ozone with other services, which changes the total.
• Your individual assessment — the clinician’s recommendation after reviewing your history and goals.

How to think about value, not just priceWhen comparing options, it helps to look beyond the sticker price. A slightly different plan that better matches your needs can be a better use of your money than the cheapest option that is not the right fit. During a consultation, it is fair to ask what is included, how many sessions are expected, and what happens if you need fewer or more.
A note on insuranceCoverage for integrative and alternative treatments varies widely by plan, and many of these services are not covered. If insurance matters to your decision, check directly with your insurer, and ask the clinic what documentation they can provide. Do not assume coverage either way — confirm it.
Getting an accurate quoteThe most reliable way to learn what ozone therapy will cost for you is to ask directly. The clinic publishes general information on its pricing page, and a free consultation can give you a specific, personalized estimate based on your goals.
When you reach out, it helps to have a few details ready:

• The main concern you want to address and how long you have had it.
• Anything you have already tried.
• Your questions about sessions, timing, and budget.

Get a personalized estimate
Michigan Ozone Center offers a free consultation in Farmington Hills, MI, where you can get a clear quote for your situation. Book your free consultation or call 248-804-2616. You can also review the pricing page for general information.
Frequently asked questionsWhy can’t you just tell me one price?Because the right plan varies by person — the method, number of sessions, and concern all affect the total. A consultation produces an accurate number for your situation.
Where can I see pricing information?General information is on the pricing page, and a free consultation gives you a personalized estimate.
Does insurance cover ozone therapy?It often does not, and coverage varies by plan. Check with your insurer directly and ask the clinic what documentation they can provide.
Is a more expensive plan always better?No. The best plan is the one suited to your needs, which is not always the most expensive one. Ask what is included and why it is recommended.

​Prolozone and prolotherapy are related but not the same. Here’s a plain comparison of how they differ, what each targets, and how to choose — from Michigan Ozone Center, Farmington Hills, MI.

“Prolozone” and “prolotherapy” sound almost identical, and they are closely related — but they are not the same treatment. If you are weighing non-surgical options for joint or chronic pain, understanding the difference helps you ask better questions at your consultation. Here is a clear, side-by-side look.
The short versionProlotherapy uses an injected solution (commonly a dextrose-based mixture) to encourage a natural healing response in ligaments, tendons, and joints. Prolozone builds on that same idea and adds medical-grade ozone to the approach. In other words, Prolozone can be thought of as prolotherapy combined with ozone.
Side-by-side comparison 
Prolotherapy
Prolozone
Core idea
Injected solution to prompt a healing response
Prolotherapy-style approach plus medical-grade ozone

Key ingredient
Often a dextrose-based solution
Solution combined with ozone (O₃)

Commonly explored for
Ligament, tendon, and joint concerns
Joint and chronic-pain concerns, similar areas

Format
Injection-based
Injection-based

Learn more
Prolotherapy page
Prolozone® page
 
Note: this comparison is general education. The right choice for any individual depends on their specific situation and should be decided with a qualified clinician.
How they are similar

• Both are non-surgical, injection-based approaches.
• Both are framed as ways to support the body’s own healing rather than guaranteed cures.
• Both are typically offered after a consultation, and both can involve more than one session.
• Both carry the usual considerations of any injection (for example, temporary soreness or bruising), which a clinician should review with you.

How they differThe headline difference is the addition of ozone in Prolozone. Beyond that, the choice between them often comes down to the clinician’s assessment of your particular concern and goals. Neither is automatically “better” — they are simply different tools, and the right one is the one suited to your situation.
How to choose between themYou do not have to figure this out alone. A useful approach is to:

• Write down your main concern, how long you have had it, and what you have already tried.
• Bring that to a consultation and ask which approach the clinician would suggest, and why.
• Ask about realistic expectations, the number of sessions, possible side effects, and cost.
• Ask what would happen if it does not help — a good provider will have an honest answer.

Not sure which is right for you?
A consultation is the simplest way to get a clear recommendation for your situation. Michigan Ozone Center offers a free consultation with Dr. M. Ahmad, MD, in Farmington Hills, MI. Book your free consultation or call 248-804-2616.
Frequently asked questionsIs Prolozone just prolotherapy with ozone?That is a fair way to summarize it. Prolozone takes the prolotherapy approach and adds medical-grade ozone. See the Prolozone® page for more detail.
Which one is better?Neither is universally better. They are different tools, and the appropriate choice depends on your individual situation as assessed by a clinician.
Can the same clinic offer both?Yes. Michigan Ozone Center offers both prolotherapy and Prolozone® therapy, so your clinician can discuss either during a consultation.