Botox for Neck Pain
Botox usually is not the first thing that comes to mind when searching for a remedy to alleviate chronic neck pain. Formerly, Botox was primarily known for diminishing deep crevasses (wrinkles) usually appearing on the face of a patient. However, recent research has shown that Botox can actually work to lessen muscle tension, the typical cause of neck pains. The fact that Botox can do both, eliminate neck pain and diminish wrinkles, makes sense due to the fact that they both require a form of muscle relaxation.
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Process
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Doctors have begun to use Botox injections as a form of alleviating chronic pains in the body, especially in the neck. This treatment works in lessening pain because Botox is a solution that is used to numb, or paralyze, the nerves it comes in contact with. By paralyzing the nerves within region of injection, the individual looses pain associated with the area, as well as their feeling in the area.
Benefits
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Although the FDA has released several warnings in regards to Botox and its intended uses, many doctors have testified that it has benefited their patients with chronic neck pain. A lead doctor at the New York Beth Israel Hospital, Dr. Lawrence M. Kamhi administers many Botox treatments to his patients suffering from chronic neck pain. He claims that his patients are freed from their pain within a matter of days after the injections. They often come back for more injections in a matter of months.
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Side Effects
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Other methods of alleviating chronic neck pain, like medication that must be taken orally, come with unpleasant side effects. These side effects include nausea and severe fatigue. Botox, on the other hand, does not present any side effects. Dr. Kahmi claims that only inconvenience that accompanies the Botox treatment is the quick injection.
Cost/Insurance Coverage
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The FDA has not approved Botox injections as an official treatment for chronic neck pain. Because of this, most major insurance companies will not cover this treatment under typical insurance plans. This means that patients opting for the Botox injection treatments will have to pay for them out of their pocket. The cost of Botox injections vary but average out to about $375 per injection.
Results
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Like with any medication, results vary depending on the individual and their reaction to the injection. Typically the results from the Botox injection will be fully experienced within three to five days from the injection date. There is a risk that no results will be seen. The results, or alleviation of chronic neck pain, should continue to last in the patient for about three to six months. At this point in time, most patients see their doctors for additional injections.
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