Most people think of Botox® as a cosmetic skin treatment for
getting rid of wrinkles, but doctors also use Botox® injections to treat
dystonia. Dystonia is a type of neuromuscular disorder characterized by
involuntary, repetitive muscle contractions. Botox® prevents these contractions
by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that signals
muscles to contract. Botox® can treat involuntary closure of the eyelids,
sudden contraction of facial muscles, limb spasticity, and muscle spasms in the
neck.
Botox® injections are also an FDA-approved method of
managing the symptoms of chronic migraines. The treatment consists of injecting
Botox® into multiple areas of the head, neck, and upper back and can be
administered once every 12 weeks. Patients who suffer from migraines at least
14 days per month may be eligible for the procedure.
If you suffer from chronic migraines or muscle spasms and
want to learn more about Botox®, visit Austin NeuroCare’s Specialty Treatments
page.
You can also watch this video for
further information on Botox® and migraines.