Hiya

Having recently been given a referral to a doc who injects Botox into muscles to relieve severe contractions/spasms, here's a couple of links that support the treatment: http://www.docguide.com/news/content.nsf/news/8525697700573E188525708F0043D178 and http://www.sturdymemorial.org/serv_ms_botox.html.

I'm interested both in evidence or views that aren't supportive, and whether anyone has had personal experience with Botox injections for multiple sclerosis or another condition.

monkey

Hello again,

My own recent experience...
First, an expensive consultation with a top-notch neurologist/neurophysician who, because of my obvious distress, kindly slotted me into his next Botox clinic 2 days later. When asked about the likely cost he said that he would be administering about $2000 (Australian) worth but that he would only charge me $300 to $400 At the clinic he injected 2 of my upper leg muscles with Botox about 6-7 times, plus my biceps (upper arm), once. The Doc then only charged me $35 to cover the cost of the needles. What a guy. In his words, he was "robbing Peter to pay Paul".

Sadly, the much anticipated miraculous relief did not eventuate - either instantly, or after 5 days when I was told that the drug would begin to work. Certainly, the muscles were more relaxed and softer, but the evil spasms still prevented me from fully straightening my leg and my sleep continued to be interrupted.

This process has now taken me full circle to my initial concern - which was that a 20 year-old skiing injury to my knee was the root cause of my troubles. I had an x-ray of the offending area this week and have just been referred to an orthopaedic surgeon. So, the investigation continues... Thankfully, for the past 2-3 weeks my carer's extreme and very painful stretching, massage and manipulation of my leg has brought me substantial relief and I look forward (with gritted teeth), to her daily ministrations.

In summary: if heavy massage, or drugs taked orally (or smoked!), or do not bring you relief, and if your musculoskeletal problems were not caused by an old injury, that is, if all else fails, I do recommend that you try Botox injections. I am told that they are commonly used to treat conditions like stroke, spinal cord injury and dystonia. Oh, and if you can afford them or if you have a very nice doctor!

Hi Monkey

In the next edition of Able we will be looking at MS so this is quite a timely post.

When interviewing the relevant organisations I'll be sure to bring up your thoughts on the use of Botox and see if we can get an opinion.

Be sure to check back on the site for updates.