Should I try Botulinum toxin for my cervical dystonia?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been dealing with painful neck pulling and muscle spasms that make driving and desk work very difficult. A neurologist suggested injections as well as oral medications.

Should I try Botulinum toxin injections or medication first for cervical dystonia at 36 years of age?

Do Botulinum toxin injections actually control pain better than medications?

How often would I need the injections, and will they make my neck weak?

I am exhausted from living with this pain every day. Some days, I plan everything based on how severe my neck symptoms are. There have been days when I cancel plans at the last minute because I simply cannot hold my head straight.

Kindly advise.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and am sorry to hear about the discomfort you are experiencing.

The doctor will usually give people injections of Botulinum toxin for dystonia, which is also known as neck dystonia.

This is because Botulinum toxin injections work better than pills at stopping the neck movements and the pain that comes with neck dystonia. Botulinum toxin injections are a way to get rid of the abnormal movements and pain that people, with cervical dystonia have to deal with.

Some people get relief with oral drugs such as Baclofen, Clonazepam and Trihexyphenidyl. However, their effectiveness is limited and may induce side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, dry mouth, blurred vision, problems with memory or concentration.

The benefits of Botulinum toxin injections fade off over time and generally need to be repeated every three to four months. Temporary weakening in the neck may occur, especially with early therapy sessions, but the treating physician is careful adjust the dose and injection sites to provide for symptom alleviation while maintaining normal neck function. Some people also have slight soreness at the injection site or transient trouble swallowing.

When symptoms considerably impede driving, work and daily activities, it would be fair to discuss in detail with the neurologist the therapy with Botulinum toxin. Many individuals with cervical dystonia report considerable reduction in discomfort, muscle spasms and head control after suitable injections.

I hope this helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thanks.