BOTOX for Chronic Headaches

Botulinum toxin injection therapy (BOTOX®) is more commonly known as a cosmetic treatment for facial lines and wrinkles.  However, it was originally developed to treat dystonia and muscle spasms.  Botulinum toxin injection is now used to treat a variety of dystonias (spasmodic torticollis or cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, and writer’s cramp) and a number of other neurological disorders, including spasticity, tremors, and motor tics.  In October the FDA finally approved Botulinum Toxin for treatment of chronic migraines. Injection therapy generally takes only a few minutes.  You should begin to experience the effects of the medication one to two weeks after an injection, and the effects last anywhere from 3 to 4 months.  Some people report minor and temporary discomfort from the injection. Dr L’Europa has been utilizing botulinum toxin for many years however due to the expense most patients could not afford the treatment.  Since it became FDA approved for chronic migraines all insurances are covering it.  It is not a cure but is very effective when combined with a comprehensive headache program.
 

BOTOX for Movement Disorders 

Botulinum toxin injection therapy (BOTOX®) is more commonly known as a cosmetic treatment for facial lines and wrinkles. However, it was originally developed to treat dystonia and muscle spasms. The NeuroHealth Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Center is home to one of the largest botulinum toxin clinics in Rhode Island. 

Botulinum toxin injection is now used to treat a variety of dystonias (spasmodic torticollis or cervical dystonia, blepharospasm, hemifacial spasm, and writer’s cramp) and a number of other neurological disorders, including spasticity, tremors, motor tics, and even chronic headache. Patients with these disorders may experience dramatic benefit with proper injections. 

Botulinum toxin, a protein substance, is directly injected into muscle tissue to reduce muscle spasm and pain. The injections weaken muscle activity enough to reduce a spasm but not enough to cause paralysis. Botulinum toxin is injected into the muscle using a very fine needle. In many cases, the injections are performed under EMG (electromyography) guidance. This allows the neurologist to make sure that the injection is being administered to the affected muscles. Some people report minor and temporary discomfort from the injection. Injection therapy appointments generally last less than 30 minutes. You should begin to experience the effects of the medication one to two weeks after an injection, and the effects last anywhere from 3 to 6 months. 

Botulinum toxin is marketed under two brands in the U.S. – BOTOX® (botulinum toxin type A) and Myobloc (botulinum toxin type B). Patients who do not respond to one typemay respond to the other.