Upper and lower limb spasticity can accompany many health conditions, causing discomfort and mobility issues. Stroke, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries can all cause spasticity that may be relieved by the use of botulinum toxin treatments. Our pain specialists at DOCS Health offer botulinum toxin (Botox®) treatment for limb spasticity in the upper and lower body at our medical center in Los Angeles, CA.

Individuals with limb spasticity have extremely tight muscles that can restrict normal movement. This can occur in the upper limbs in the elbow, wrist and fingers, or in the lower leg muscles. Chemodenervation is a treatment that uses injections into tight, spastic muscles to relax the contractions. Multiple forms of botulinum toxin like Botox have been FDA-approved for treatment of limb spasticity.

Botulinum toxin works by restricting nerve communications to the targeted muscles. It is a neurotoxin that interrupts neurotransmitter signals from the brain to the muscles. Injections into the muscle can cause a relaxation effect, allowing the muscles to reduce spasms. This can result in more normal movement and improved comfort for the patient.

Treatment for Arm and Leg Spasticity

Botox injections offer a non-invasive treatment for many types of limb spasticity issues. The treatments can be performed in about 15-20 minutes at our clinic, and there are minimal side effects or adverse reactions reported. The targeted muscles receive injections, and no downtime is needed after the treatment. The most common side effects are mild, ranging from bruising or swelling at the injection site to headaches or flu-like symptoms. There are possible severe side effects, but these are very rare.

Botox treatment for spasticity can offer relief from some muscle tightness or spasms within a week. The effects of botulinum toxin do wear off, usually in about 3-4 months. Patients wanting to maintain the effects usually will need repeated treatments.

If you have upper or lower limb spasticity from a medical condition, you may benefit from interventional treatment with Botox injections. To learn more, contact our team at DOCS Health in Beverly Hills, CA to schedule your pain management consultation.