Redefine Healthcare is pleased to announce that they will now offer Botox injections at their four New Jersey locations. This is exciting news, as Botox offers incredible advantages to people living with chronic pain. When most people hear the word “Botox,” they automatically think of erasing the signs of aging. However, Botox can also help relieve various pain disorders such as chronic neck pain, especially when combined with physical therapy.
Botox is a form of botulinum toxin type A. This toxin has been used for a long time to relax muscles and relieve uncontrolled muscle contractions. However, in recent years, it has come to be known mainly as a cosmetic treatment that reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face. Researchers now know that this purified form of the toxin has medical benefits as well.
Botox Injections for Neck Pain
Research has found patients report significantly lower pain levels when using Botox in conjunction with physical therapy. This exciting discovery means that many people living with chronic pain that hasn’t responded to other measures may now find some relief. Patients often report that Botox makes a significant difference in their pain levels. And that they would be willing to try it again in the future for another pain condition.
Botox provides pain relief that lasts around three to six months, depending on the disorder causing the pain. It is useful for a variety of muscle-related conditions such as spasticity and cervical dystonia. Chronic neck pain conditions can lead to stiff, damaged muscles. One reason Botox may be so useful when combined with physical therapy is that it relaxes the muscles before treatment. This maximizes the potential for healing, pain relief, repair and rehabilitation of the injured or damaged muscle tissue and strengthening of muscles that have been weakened by spasms.
Using Botox injections as an enhancement to physical therapy methods is generally preferable to oral pain medications. Its effects are local. Also, it does not have the same side effects as many oral pain medications, such as drowsiness, fatigue, dizziness, or the potential for addiction. Besides chronic neck pain, Botox injections are also useful for migraines, headaches, myofascial pain, and nerve disorders that result in blepharospasm (tight involuntary closure of the eyelids).
How Botox Injections Work
Botox works by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a substance that binds to its receptor and causes muscle contractions. When acetylcholine is prevented from being released, it allows the muscle to relax. Botox is administered via injection directly to the site being treated.
Patients typically feel pain relief about a week after treatment. After several months, therapies may need to be repeated; most patients receive Botox four times a year for ongoing assistance. Long-term Botox injection therapy is safe and effective. However, as the injections relax the muscles enough to make physical therapy easier, patients may find they no longer need their Botox injection treatments.
Contact Redefine Healthcare today to learn more or book a consultation.