Although most commonly thought of as a treatment for wrinkles, botulinum toxin has been shown to be effective if treating a wide variety of pain conditions. Many chronic pain problems are related to both nerve (neuropathic or neurogenic) abnormalities and muscle dysfunction (spasm/hypersensitivity). Botulinum toxin has been shown to be effective in chronic headaches, cervical dystonia, myofascial pain syndrome, whiplash, back pain, and spasticity. Insurance coverage for botulinum toxin is variable and depends on the underlying diagnosis. Botulinum toxin works by temporarily blocking neuromuscular transmission of acetyl choline, thereby inhibiting muscle contraction. The effects usually last three to four months. Not all pain conditions will respond to botulinum toxin treatment. Make an appointment with one of our providers to see if this treatment is right for you. Further information is available at: http://www.painclinic.org/musclepain-aboutbotox.htm http://headaches.about.com/cs/prevention/a/ahs03_botox.htm
