NEUROLOGY & SLEEP SPECIALISTS LOCATED IN NORTHERN VIRGINIA, ALEXANDRIA, VA, OLD ALEXANDRIA, VA, LORTON, VA, & FALLS CHURCH, VA

What is Botox?

Botox is a drug derived from Clostridium botulinum. It blocks nerves to temporarily weaken or paralyze specific muscles. Botox was initially developed to reduce eyelid twitches — known clinically as blepharospasm. 

Botox works by preventing the release of acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter that tells your muscles when to contract. This stops abnormal muscle activity and can reduce unusual contractions, releasing muscle stiffness. 

What neurological conditions improve with Botox?

The experienced neurologists use Botox to treat several nerve disorders, including:

Chronic migraine

Botox blocks the release of the chemical that triggers migraines and prevents activation in the pain networks in your brain. Most patients have a series of treatments to effectively prevent migraines from occurring. 

Spasticity

If you have muscle spasticity from a stroke, spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, or cerebral palsy, Botox injections might reduce your muscle stiffness and spasm. Unlike oral medications, your doctor can specifically target the affected muscles with Botox injections. 

Dystonia

Dystonia is a neurological condition that causes uncontrollable muscle contractions. Botox injections deliver medication directly into your spasming muscles to stop the abnormal nerve signals. 

Blepharospasm

A chronic eyelid twitch, referred to in medical terms as blepharospasm, is annoying and can interfere with your vision. Botox injections stop the nerve signals that cause the muscle spasms, relieving your twitch.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is caused by irregular nerve signals that trigger your sweat glands, even when you’re not hot. Botox works by blocking the nerve signals that stimulate your sweat glands. 

What should I expect during a Botox treatment?

Your doctor at Integrated Neurology Services begins with a comprehensive exam. In some cases, like with migraines, you need to have tried other treatments before your doctor can prescribe Botox. Your doctor discusses your treatment options, including Botox, and may create a multidimensional treatment plan to address your needs.

When you have Botox injections, you can expect to spend around 20 minutes with your doctor. They use a thin needle to inject Botox into your affected body part. Most patients tolerate the injections well and report a mild pinching sensation. 

Botox needs a little time to take effect, and you should notice an improvement in your condition within a few days. Depending on your condition, you might need to have regular Botox injections to maintain the effects. 

Call Integrated Neurology Services or make an appointment online today to learn how Botox injections can ease your painful neurological condition.