Purpose of the procedure
The effect is temporary and varies depending on individual anatomy, clinical presentation, and the application site.
Who can be evaluated for it?
Confirmation of the diagnosis, symptom severity, functional goals, previously administered treatments, and comorbid conditions are evaluated together.
What is spasticity?
Spasticity is a motor control problem characterized by a velocity-dependent increase in muscle tone following central nervous system damage. It can be seen in stroke, brain or spinal cord injury, and certain neurological diseases.
The goal of treatment is not only to relax the muscle
Botulinum toxin can reduce focal excessive muscle activity; however, success is evaluated based on individualized, predetermined goals such as hand hygiene, dressing, walking, orthosis use, pain, ease of care, or active function.
Why is rehabilitation important?
The period during which muscle tone is reduced can provide an opportunity to implement stretching, active exercise, task-oriented rehabilitation, positioning, or an orthosis plan. For this reason, injection and rehabilitation should not be considered independently of each other.
Scientific evidence
The use of botulinum toxin in this field is addressed within the framework of peer-reviewed clinical studies, systematic reviews, and relevant specialty guidelines. Patient selection, setting clinical goals, and regular follow-up are important.
Safety
Pain and bruising may occur at the injection site. Depending on the target area, temporary weakness in adjacent muscles may develop. If generalized weakness, difficulty swallowing, or difficulty breathing develops, urgent medical evaluation is required.
Post-procedure considerations
In spasticity treatment, the rehabilitation, positioning, orthosis, or active exercise plan following the injection can be an important part of the treatment goal. If unexpected loss of daily function, muscle weakness greater than targeted, or new swallowing/breathing complaints develop, contact our clinic. The rehabilitation program should be individualized and re-evaluated along with the treatment response.
Relationship with pain treatment
In spasticity, the primary goal of botulinum toxin is not solely pain reduction; goals such as excessive muscle tone, ease of care, movement, and function are at the forefront. If pain is accompanying, it can also be monitored as part of the treatment response. Pain and Algology Guides →
Our approach in our Bodrum clinic
We approach the treatment plan not merely as an injection procedure, but in coordination with diagnosis, functional goals, rehabilitation, and relevant specialties when necessary. Treatment goals, expected benefits, potential limitations, and risks are addressed in detail during the information process.
Frequently asked questions
Is the effect permanent?
No, it decreases over time.
Is the dose the same for everyone?
No. The administration plan is personalized according to the targeted muscle or gland, anatomy, functional findings, and clinical goals.
References
Peer-reviewed botulinum toxin studies, systematic reviews, expert consensus statements, and relevant clinical guidelines have been taken as the basis.
This page is for general informational purposes.
How is the treatment goal determined?
In spasticity treatment, the goal is not solely to reduce muscle tone. Walking, hand use, positioning, ease of care, pain, and rehabilitation goals are evaluated together. Because weakening a specific muscle in some patients may lead to functional loss, goals are determined individually.
Why is rehabilitation important?
In suitable patients, botulinum toxin application can be part of a more meaningful rehabilitation program when planned together with physical therapy, stretching, positioning, orthoses, and functional exercises. Unexpected functional loss or excessive weakness during follow-up is also evaluated.
Frequently asked questions
Is reducing muscle tone the only goal in spasticity treatment?
No. The clinical goal is determined together with the individual’s daily function and care needs.
