Botulinum Toxin Injections for Spasticity Management
At Rehab Medicine of the Carolinas, we specialize in advanced treatment options for spasticity, a condition characterized by involuntary muscle stiffness and tightness that often occurs after stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological conditions. To help patients regain mobility and reduce discomfort, we offer Botulinum toxin injections using FDA-approved formulations: Xeomin®, Dysport®, and Botox®.
These injectable treatments work by temporarily blocking nerve signals to overactive muscles, allowing for improved range of motion, better limb positioning, decreased pain, and enhanced function during physical therapy. By relaxing the targeted muscle groups, botulinum toxin can significantly improve the quality of life for patients struggling with spasticity-related challenges.
Indications and Patient Selection
Botulinum toxin injections are indicated for focal spasticity—when specific muscle groups become overly tight or resistant to movement. Common areas we treat include:
- Flexed elbows or clenched fists following a stroke
- Tight calf muscles causing toe-walking or foot dragging
- Stiff thighs or groin muscles that restrict walking
- Upper limb tightness after cervical or thoracic spinal cord injury
This treatment can benefit patients in both the acute recovery and chronic stages of neurological injury. It is often used alongside physical and occupational therapy, splinting, and oral medications to optimize functional gains.
Precision with EMG-Guided Injections
To ensure the highest level of accuracy and effectiveness, our clinic utilizes electromyographic (EMG) guidance during every botulinum toxin injection. EMG allows our physicians to precisely identify the overactive muscles by measuring electrical activity, ensuring that the medication is delivered exactly where it is needed. This level of precision not only improves outcomes but also reduces the risk of unwanted side effects, such as muscle weakness in unintended areas.
Customized Treatment Plans
Our providers develop individualized treatment plans based on each patient’s clinical presentation, goals, and response to prior therapies. We carefully select the most appropriate botulinum toxin formulation—whether Xeomin, Dysport, or Botox—depending on muscle distribution, treatment history, and patient-specific factors. Injections are typically repeated every 12 to 16 weeks, depending on the duration of effect and clinical needs.
Our team includes physicians with extensive experience in neurorehabilitation and spasticity management, and we are committed to delivering care that restores comfort, enhances independence, and supports each patient’s recovery journey.