Botulinum Toxin Injection Therapy
Botulinum toxin injection therapy (known as "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, writer’s cramp) and a number of other neurological disorders including spasticity, tremors, motor tics, and even chronic headache. Patients with these disorders may have 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 the injection, and the injections last anywhere from 3 to 6 months.

Botulinum toxin is marketed under two brands in the US, Botox® (botulinum toxin type A), and Myobloc (botulinum toxin type B).  Patients who do not respond to one type, may respond to another. 

Botulinum toxin treatments for dystonias and spasticity are administered Dr. Kelvin Chou, a movement disorders specialist.  Dr. Chou has extensive experience and is fellowship trained in using botulinum toxin therapy.