Alternative Botox Uses
Over the last several years, doctors have been finding new ways to use Botox, a injection of a neuromuscular inhibitor that stiffens and restricts certain muscle use for several months. Most commonly known and used to improve the wrinkling in the face around the mouth, eyes, and forehead, the drug can now be used for over one hundred different procedures. Although, most are not FDA approved, here are a few of the more common procedures Botox is being used for.
Uncontrolled Blinking
Botox was actually originally created to cure crossed eyes and uncontrollable blinking. The drug was designed to weaken the muscles that caused the eyes to spasm cross. One patient asked to stay on the Botox because it helped reduce her wrinkles. The rest is history…
Migraines
One of the few FDA approved uses of Botox is to help relieve migraines. Although research to determine Botox’s role in migraine prevention remains inconclusive, one theory suggests it prevents nerve endings from sending the signals to the brain.
Sweating
Unfortunately for some of us, the problem of excessive sweating can be as debilitating as walking naked into a crowd of people. Botox has been found to prevent these cases for up to seven months by injecting the patient under the skin just where the sweat gland lies.
Neck Muscles Spasms
Vertical bands in the neck known as platysma bands has been associated with the muscles’ uncontrollable movement. Spasms, their associated discomfort, and the appearance of platysma bands have been proven to be improved with the use of Botox and physical therapy.
Enlarged Prostate
The ability to calm an enlarged prostate has relieved many men of much discomfort. The Botox is injected into the prostate which decreases its size and allows for a less irritation.
Cerebral Palsy and Multiple Sclerosis
The muscles that relate to the spasms from patients with cerebal palsy and multiple sclerosis have been known to relax after a Botox injection, creating less contractions and spasms.
Overactive Bladders
Botox has been known to also relax urinary muscles of patients with overactive bladders typically caused by unwanted muscle contractions. Similar to most of the other procedures, once the Botox is injected into the muscles, it restricts unwanted use.
Although there are many more uses for Botox being provided and discovered, these are some of the more common procedures currently in use. It is clear many modes of medicine have found Botox safe enough to treat a wide range of physical concerns. Botox for cosmetic use is also safe and effective. It is good to know that Botox is not a final cure, only a temporary fix (or in the case of cosmetic use, preventive at best). For some patients, this is all they need, while others may look for more long-term procedures. Whatever your concern may be, always request a consultation
to determine any issues before seeking any treatment that can create serious damage to your body.
