We have been struggling with muscle spasticity or muscle tone. What is spasticity? Spasticity is generally caused by damage or disruption to the area of the brain and spinal cord that are responsible for controlling muscle and stretch reflexes. These disruptions can be due to an imbalance in the inhibitory and excitatory signals or neurotransmitters sent to the muscles, causing them to lock in place.
Botox stops the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is the neurotransmitter that turns the light switch on for nerves that control muscles. So, if you stop that release it is like turning that light switch off. Botox is beneficial because it is an injection, they can localize it more to the nerves that are controlling the muscles that have spasticity in them. Studies have found that Botox is more effective for the upper extremities than it is for the lower extremities.
Will this cure your spasticity or turn it off completely? No. It will decrease or reduce your spasticity but don’t expect the botox to turn it off.
Keep in mind that it does take up to two to three weeks for it to become fully effective and wears off in about 3 months, so you will have to continue to get treatment every 3 months. You’re only allowed a certain dose so it’s not like they can inject every muscle. They really do have to be selective. Because of this, it is important that your doctor and physical or occupational therapist are communicating together so that you are targeting the right muscles and the muscles where you will get the most benefit from the medication.