Getting rid of a pain in the neck is usually easier said than done.
Patients who suffer from muscle pain don't always find immediate and lasting relief, however, a new treatment option may be the solution. According to experts at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, injecting Botulinum toxin into trigger points in the muscle may offer longer lasting relief for patients suffering from muscle pain in the back or neck that is due to muscle spasms.
"This treatment used in conjunction with physical therapy can help loosen the muscles and provide relief for several months," said Dr. Benoy Benny, assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation and director of the spine, sports and pain program at BCM.
Many patients suffering with this type of pain have tried several treatment options including non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, physical therapy and trigger point injections with a local anesthetic. Those who felt short-term relief from the trigger point injections may find that Botulinum toxin injections provide the same relief for a longer period of time, said Benny. Whereas the trigger point injections may last for a few hours, days or weeks, Botulinum toxin injections can last for as many as three months for some and can be repeated if necessary.
Over time, the frequency of the injections can be reduced as the patient continues with physical therapy.
Doctors are now exploring what other areas of pain this treatment can be used in, and whether it may be an alternative to surgery for those suffering from refractory back pain. However, the treatment is not recommended for patients with neurological symptoms as it is not meant to treat these symptoms, said Benny.
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