Botulinum Toxin Injections: A Treatment for Muscle Spasms
Woman got injection in knee. Concept of skin rejuvenation or joint pain treatment.
Botulinum Toxin injections, commonly known as botox, have a lot of medical value. It has been used in the cosmetic sector to treat wrinkles. In addition, Botox is widely used in the medical space for three purposes – excessive sweating, muscle spasms, and chronic migraines.
But how efficient is botox for the treatment of muscle spasms? Is it safe? Who should get the treatment? Are there any side effects? Should I take some precautions?
This article will answer all such doubts about using Botulinum Toxin injections as a treatment for muscle spasms.
What is a muscle spasm?
When muscles contracts on their own, you get a twitching-like feel, and that is what is known as muscle spasms. It is commonly known as cramps or muscle cramps. The tightening of muscles results in a very painful contraction. Since they are unpredictable, the pain is quite terrible. While there are many ways to prevent or treat muscle spasms, the methods are not always viable and reliable.
Botox
However, in recent years, doctors have considered botox injections to treat certain muscle cramps. It is important to note that botox is not prescribed for all kinds of muscle spasms. It is currently used to treat only three types. These include:
- Eye movement disorders like a lazy eye
- Cervical dystonia, where a muscle spasm causes the head and neck to twist and turn
- Twitching on your face or eyelids
The drug is prescribed and injected in a doctor’s office. You could be given more injections in one sitting; the number depends on your condition and the size of the treated area.
Some of the side effects and risks involved include:
Botox injections are safe. All you need to do is find a well-experienced doctor who is an expert at providing botox treatment for muscle spasms. However, you should be well aware of the treatment’s potential complications and side effects.
A few side effects include pain, bruising, or swelling at the place of injection, eye dryness, or excessive tearing. Other risks are that you might have symptoms like flue, suffer from headaches, droopy eyelids, crooked smile, or others.
Who should avoid this treatment?
Though there are side effects, they are rare and curable. However, certain people are restricted from taking this treatment. This includes pregnant or breastfeeding women and people who are generally allergic to cow’s milk protein.
How to prepare for the treatment?
Since the treatment could lead to some side effects, it is best to avoid or reduce certain activities. In addition, keep your doctor well-informed of your medical history, treatments, and the medications you take for muscle spasms like sleeping aids, muscle relaxants, etc.
If you are using blood thinners, it is best to stop taking them a few days, at least a week, before your injection. You should also avoid wine and garlic. Once your treatment is over, avoid exercising for a couple of days. You should not rub on the treated area for at least 24-48 hours post-treatment. It is essential to go for regular checkups and follow-up injections to benefit from this treatment.
