What Is Botox?
Botox is a prescription medication derived from the botulinum toxin. It is a neurotoxin that temporarily paralyzes the muscles that it is injected into. Botox has been FDA approved for cosmetic use since 2002 and is also used to treat various medical conditions, including those related to chronic pain.
Botox is a treatment for migraines, excessive sweating, and hyperhidrosis. Botox injections can be given in various areas of the body to offer medical-grade relief from chronic conditions
Will Relief From Botox Injections be Instant?
How long it takes Botox to work can vary between patients. The relief from Botox injections is not instantaneous, or rather, you might feel some relief right away, but not all. It can take a few days for the full effects to be seen. This is because after the neurotoxin travels to the muscles and paralyzes them, it can take a while for the effects of that relaxation to be realized.
Many patients compare the pain to a pinprick or small pinch. Patients often see results after just two treatments. The treatment has been successful in preventing the onset of headaches before they start. It may also help to lessen the symptoms of migraines when they do occur
What Chronic Pain Conditions Can Botox Treat?
Botox is FDA approved to treat the following chronic pain conditions:
- Chronic migraine headaches
- Excessive sweating also called hyperhidrosis
- Cervical dystonia – a condition that causes the neck muscles to contract involuntarily
It can also be used off-label to lessen or eliminate pain from other conditions as well. Be sure to speak with your doctor about the possibility of using Botox for your specific chronic pain problems.
How Long Do the Results of Botox Injections for Chronic Pain Last?
The results of Botox injections usually last about three months, but this varies depending on the person. Some people will need more frequent injections to maintain the desired results, while others may only need them every four or five months. Again, speak with your doctor about what is best for you.
Should I Get Botox for My Chronic Pain?
That is a question only you and your doctor can answer. Botox injections are not a miracle cure for all chronic pain conditions, but they may be an effective treatment option for you. At the APAC, we offer Botox injection therapy for appropriate chronic pain conditions. Schedule your consultation to find out if Botox injections in Chicago are right for you and to discover all of the options we have available for chronic pain management.
Learn more about chronic pain. Read: What you should know about cervical disc herniation and why it happens!
