Q. What’s the best alternative remedy for joint pain?

A. Prolotherapy is a promising, regenerative treatment for those with acute or chronic joint pain, says Paul Anderson, ND, a naturopath and teacher at Bastyr University School of Naturopathic Medicine. Natural substances that promote joint health, such as dextrose, glucosamine, and hyaluronic acid, are injected inside a joint or into the supportive ligaments surrounding it, which stimulates the immune system and helps the body rebuild and strengthen injured or arthritic areas. The procedure is commonly used on the sacroiliac joints, low back, knees, ribs, and neck. Only a physician trained in prolotherapy can assess whether this procedure is appropriate for you. The good news: Prolotherapy has become increasingly popular among physicians, including traditional MDs, naturopaths, and doctors of osteopathy. If prolotherapy sounds like an option for you, ask how long the doc has been performing the procedure—and what results her patients have had—before you sign on.