Botox
Botox® is not just used for cosmetic surgery purposes. It is also used for pain management in order to relax muscles that are contributing to pain. The injection allows us to reach very targeted areas of muscles.
How it Works
The Botox® injection is prepared by mixing the bacterium botulinum toxin with saline, and often a local anesthetic as well. Computer tomography (CT) is used in order to determine the area that is causing the pain, and which muscle groups need to be targeted. Botox® is injected directly into the muscles with a fine needle. The injection relaxes the muscles, which results in reduced pain and discomfort.
Conditions
Botox® is often used for managing pain associated with:
- Muscle imbalances
- Myofascial pain
- Headaches
- Neck pain
- Back pain
Recovery
You will feel relief almost immediately as a result of the local anesthetic. The results from the Botox® start appearing in 10 to 14 days following the injection. The results will last for three to four months, but some patients experience relief for up to six months. You may need repeat injections in order to maintain your relief. Depending on the cause of your pain, the injections may be combined with physical therapy techniques in order to strengthen and stretch out your muscles.
It is possible to experience bruising and swelling at the injection site, as well as a temporary headache. These side effects are short-term and go away in a few days. It is also possible for nearby muscle groups to be affected by the injection even if they were not originally targeted.
Contact Allied Pain & Spine Institute today to schedule consultation.