While Botox is often thought of as the confidence boosting go-to choice for wealthy housewives, it can be used for much more than just getting rid of wrinkles and making you look younger. There are many alternative uses in the medical field.

 

Botox is a protein derived from the botulism toxin (which in high doses is poisonous) that basically blocks the signals that would normally tell a muscle to contract. Traditionally this has been put to use in the medical world by “paralyzing” muscles to reduce frown lines and wrinkles by making it difficult for the muscles to contract or create wrinkles. It is currently being used to treat a variety of medical conditions that involve muscle tightness, muscle weakness, bladder control, and improper neurological signals.

 

1. Treating Cerebral Palsy

 

Many physicians recommend Botox injections to help relax muscle affected by cerebral palsy. This treatment blocks nerve signals that cause these muscles to contract. Only a few injections may be given at a time due to the maximum dose limitations. Casting may be performed on certain muscles to help alter their positioning.

 

Botox injection treatments:

 

• Helps to relax the tight muscles and muscle spasticity associated with cerebral palsy
• Is often used in connection with physical therapy treatments to help stretch and elongate the affected muscles and muscle groups
• Works fairly quickly and visible effects are typically noticed in the first week or two following treatment
• Lasts for 3 to 6 months
• Can reduce the need for surgical intervention or the number of required surgeries

 

2. Treating Migraine Headaches

 

Botox can help reduce migraine side effects. This treatment is recommended for those who suffer the debilitating effects of chronic migraine more than 14 days each month. The effects of Botox lasts longer and some say are more effective than popular prescription drugs used for the treatment of debilitating migraines.

 

Botox injections:

 

• Prevents migraines from developing by relaxing the muscles that constrict the blood flow and cause migraines.
• Alleviates the symptoms associated with migraines
• Reduces the frequency of days spent suffering from migraine headaches each month
• Works for chronic and severe tension headaches as well
• Lasts for approximately 12 weeks

 

3. Treating Strabismus

 

Botox can aid strabismus, more commonly referred to as crossed eyes. Injections are placed in the muscles around the eyes allowing one muscle to relax while the opposite muscle can then work more effectively at pulling the eye into proper position.

 

Botox injections:

 

• Helps muscles relax and also pull eyes back into alignment
• Reduces muscle spasms in the eye area
• Helps to correct vision problems resulting from strabismus
• Prevents some of the vision loss often associated with crossed eyes

 

Botox for Special Needs Children

 

Botox is more than just a “pretty face”. It is approved for the treatment of many muscular and neurologically related conditions. It may also be used for other medical conditions as determined by a physician, including for many of the ailments that special needs children face. As with any medical procedure, please consult with your doctor before deciding on this treatment option.
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Dr. Khorsandi is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and the founder of VIP Plastic Surgery. He has studied at some of the top medical institutions in America and has received honors for both his compassionate and skills as a physician.