If you’re like most people, you’re familiar with Botox as a cosmetic tool that smooths wrinkles. However, it also has a little-known pain management side. At least, it’s little known to the general public; scientists have studied it for at least a decade. These studies show that the same chemical that makes Botox so effective at minimizing wrinkles can also block pain signals.
You may know Botox works by blocking specific nerve signals controlling your muscles. Your brain and body are constantly communicating, and when it comes to pain, your body sends distress messages that your brain interprets as pain. Yet, if you can block that signal, your muscles relax, and you feel less pain.
At Brilliant Beauty Med Spa in San Pedro, California, our expert team specializes in Botox, IV therapy, and other ways to manage chronic pain.
How Botox works
Botox injections block the release of a chemical called acetylcholine in your nerve endings. This chemical works as a neurotransmitter in your body ferrying messages between the brain and body, which affects muscle control. An instrumental part of your body’s nervous system, when you interrupt the communication signals, you change your body’s response.
Imagine your body in pain. Pain causes the muscles to tense, and this pain is thanks to the signal sent by acetylcholine. Botox puts the brakes on this messenger so that your muscles don’t tense, and you feel relief.
What types of chronic pain respond well to Botox?
Studies show that people suffering from all types of chronic pain have found relief through Botox, including those who battle:
- Chronic migraines
- Back, neck, and shoulder pain
- Neuropathy
- Arthritis
If you suffer from any of these or other chronic pain, a Botox injection may offer you relief for months.
What can you expect with Botox for pain relief?
Botox injections are a nonsurgical procedure. After your evaluation, our team targets the specific muscles for the injection and numbs that area before the injection. There’s no downtime, and you can get right back to your daily activities after your procedure.
As you may guess, using Botox as a chronic pain management tool is a newer application, yet the results are positive. Unlike addictive opioids, Botox is safer and can offer pain relief that lasts months. You may feel pain relief within a day or two.
As with any procedure, we consult with you about your chronic pain and medical history to make individual recommendations. You can schedule an appointment at Brilliant Beauty Med Spa in San Pedro, California, or via our online scheduling tool to see if Botox for pain relief is right for you.