Prolotherapy Testimonials: SI Joint Pain

Cassandra Sturkie, Attorney

On October 11, 2005, the Washington Post published an article by Robin Wright entitled "A Shoulder to Cry On: How a New Office Chair Led to Six Cortisone Shots, Two Surgeries, and One Enduring Medical Misadventure." As the title suggests, Ms. Wright described how a shoulder ache worsened, causing her debilitating pain and depression, after she lost precious treatment time in the hands of doctors who (in her view) did not adequately manage the problem. In reading this article, I realized that, for the first time since I fell on stairs and suffered a severe sacroiliac joint ("SI") and coccyx injury ....The day I fell, I was a 30-year marathon runner who had never suffered a serious injury. After my fall, I felt excruciating pain in my pubis and could not walk without dragging my right leg. My orthopedist, a sports medicine specialist, diagnosed me with a groin strain. Eight months later, I learned from a physical therapist that I had the classic signs of SI joint dysfunction -- a leg length discrepancy and a burning sensation in my hip and buttock caused by pelvic instability. Despite my repeated visits, my doctor had missed the diagnosis.... I was in constant pain, unable to stay in alignment for more than a day or two at a time. Frequently my right foot would go numb, and I could feel the pain creeping into my teeth. The pain made it impossible for me to concentrate at work. I lost my personality and energy. I could not bear the thought of going to a party or anywhere that required standing, yet sitting was even worse. I felt guilty because I could not sustain my relationships or my commitment to my job. I was sad, on edge, and in despair.

My situation changed once I found Dr. Friedlis. Over the past year, I have had multiple treatments of prolotherapy in my SI joint area and coccyx. In conjunction with physical therapy, prolotherapy has produced meaningful results. Because my ligaments are stronger, my pelvis stays in alignment for weeks, even months, at a time. My pain is significantly reduced and I am strong again. I have regained my mental focus and optimistic attitude. The pain no longer interferes with my sleep, so I wake up eager to start the day. One year ago, I had hoped -- but could not imagine -- that I could reach this point.

I cannot speak more highly of Dr. Friedlis, Maggie, and Kevin. They are the most empathetic, yet professional, medical staff I have encountered. Dr. Friedlis is methodical, attentive, and patient, in stark contrast to my previous doctor. I particularly appreciate his steady hands and assured demeanor. I am grateful for his expertise, and I only wish that I had started prolotherapy sooner. I urge the Washington Post writer and anyone else suffering from pain to move aggressively in seeking treatment. Time is of the essence, and prolotherapy may give you the same relief it is giving me.

Cassandra Sturkie
Attorney