About 12% of Americans experience frequent migraines. If you’re one of them, Botox® injections could provide you with significant relief. At Philadelphia Smart Pain & Wellness, with offices in Northeast Philadelphia, Bala Cynwyd, and Allentown, Pennsylvania, pain management specialist Samuel Grodofsky, MD, administers Botox to treat migraine headaches and spasticity. To learn more about this advanced, minimally invasive treatment, book an appointment online, or call the nearest office today.
request an appointmentWhat is Botox?
Botox is an injectable neuromodulator, a substance that changes the way nerves transmit information to the brain. It’s primarily used to improve the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and crow’s feet. In 2010, the FDA approved its use to treat chronic migraines.
When Botox enters your body, it surrounds the nerve endings and pain fibers associated with headaches. Over time, this blocks the release of chemicals responsible for pain transmission.
Botox is a preventive treatment. Its use stops migraines before they start. Even so, it usually takes several visits to your doctor to get noticeable results.
What type of headaches can benefit from Botox?
Dr. Grodofsky usually recommends Botox injections for chronic migraines, meaning you suffer 15 or more headaches each month. If you experience migraines only occasionally, you’ll likely benefit from a more conservative treatment like using pain medication.
Does Botox relieve migraines?
Research suggests that Botox is incredibly effective at relieving chronic migraines. The majority of people who receive injections report fewer headaches each month, improved mental clarity, and fewer days off work. The results of Botox become more noticeable over time. A series of appointments can significantly ease your pain and improve your quality of life.
Can Botox relieve spasticity?
Dr. Grodofsky also uses Botox to treat spasticity, an abnormal tightening of muscles. When injected beneath the skin, Botox blocks the nerve signals that cause your muscles to contract. Over time, your muscles relax, limiting pain and stiffness while improving mobility.
How many Botox injections will I need?
The number of Botox injections you’ll need will depend on your health history and how severe your symptoms are. Dr. Grodofsky usually recommends a series of injections every 12 weeks.
At each appointment, he administers 8-10 shots into your head and neck. If you experience migraines in a specific area, he might concentrate the injections there. Most people get migraine relief two to three weeks after their first treatment.
Is Botox safe?
Botox injections are safe and usually tolerated well. Some people experience neck pain or a mild headache following treatment, but this discomfort should go away on its own within a day or two. There’s also the risk of an allergic reaction. During your initial consultation, let Dr. Grodofsky know if you have a history of allergies or food sensitivities.
If you’re interested in receiving Botox for spasticity or migraines, request a consultation at Philadelphia Smart Pain & Wellness. Book an appointment online, or call the nearest office today.