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Botulinum Toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a common treatment for wrinkles on the face. However, this potent neurotoxin has many other uses that can benefit people with a variety of medical concerns. There are many non-cosmetic uses of Botox including TMJ Treatment, Migraine Treatment, Sweat Reduction, Neck & Shoulder Pain, and Facial Twitches/Muscle Spasms.
Masseter Botox for TMJ
Botox injections can treat TMJ, or Temporomandibular Joint Disorder. This condition causes pain in the jaw muscles and can lead to headaches that persist for years without relief. Botulinum Toxin injections can treat TMJ alongside physical therapy (such as jaw exercises). This combination is often able to provide a more lasting cure from this often difficult-to-manage condition.
To treat TMJ with Botulinum Toxin, a doctor injects Botox into the masseter muscle (sometimes called the jaw clenching muscles) to reduce its ability to contract. This will release tension in the temporomandibular joint and limit pain from these tense, overused muscles that are unable to relax. A single injection is usually all it takes for this to be effective.
Botox Treatment for Migraines
Botox can prevent migraines by injecting it into the muscles in and around the head, neck, shoulders, or jaw. With repeated doses of Botox over time (usually weeks), migraine sufferers may see a decrease in their frequency and intensity. Importantly, this treatment is not recommended for people who experience chronic headaches (i.e., over 15 days per month). It is best in acute situations where frequent migraines are significantly impacting a patient’s daily life.
Botox may also prevent cluster headaches, which are short but very intense. By injecting the muscle with Botulinum Toxin, it can prevent nerve impulses from firing.
Botox for Sweat Reduction
Excessive sweating is a common condition that affects many people around the world, typically in areas like the armpits and forehead. This may cause embarrassment at times but also has serious implications for health as well (e.g., skin infections). Botox injections can block sweat glands from producing sweat by blocking impulses.
The doctor injects Botulinum Toxin into one’s armpit or other affected area until they see a reduction in the movement of those muscles. For example, it will not move when pushed up against an object. This alerts them that adequate amounts have been injected. The goal is usually no more than three injections per armpit for maximum effect.
Botox for Neck & Shoulder Pain
Pain from muscle tension and overuse can be difficult to treat. A doctor may inject Botox into the small muscles of your neck or shoulders to relax these muscles. This will also result in an increased range of motion, which can improve daily life and activities.
Botox for Facial Twitches or Muscle Spasms
Facial twitches and muscle spasms resulting from neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis can in some cases benefit from botox injections. Botox can provide relief by disabling certain areas so the muscles cannot contract as much.
Botox is usually injected into the place of pain and muscle spasms. The injections are then given every three to six months, depending on the need. However, Botulinum Toxin may not be as effective with neurological disorders that have already caused permanent nerve damage.
Get in Touch
As you can see, Botulinum Toxin has more uses than just improving your appearance. Non-cosmetic uses for botox are a great option for anyone struggling with the above medical concerns. If any of these conditions are bothering you and you’d like to make a change, don’t hesitate to contact us! Dr. Castrellón offers free consultations as well as treatments in our office so we’re ready when you need us.
Frequently Ask Questions
Botox, also referred to as Botulinum toxin, is used not only in a variety of cosmetic procedures, but medical procedures as well. Countless medical professionals, including dentists, use Botox as a cure for certain medical issues. Common Non-Cosmetic Uses. Stopping Chronic Sweating. Controlling Muscle Spasms.
- Do not rub or massage the treated area and avoid make-up if possible.
- Avoid sleeping on your face the first night.
- Do not exercise or partake in any strenuous activity for the next 12 hrs.
- Avoid excessive alcohol consumption for the next 24hrs.
For cosmetic purposes, a Botox injection stops muscle contraction to improve appearance of facial problems like forehead lines, frown lines, and Crow’s feet. Meanwhile, Botox therapy provides relief from chronic migraine, excessive sweating, muscle spasm, cervical dystonia, and strabismus.
Wrinkle relaxing botulinum toxin type A injections ‘neurotoxins’ are the most common non-invasive aesthetic procedure in the U.S. While they are commonly called “Botox,” there are actually four different FDA-approved neurotoxins: Botox, Dysport, Jeuveau, and Xeomin.
