Have you ever used Botox for pain?

[Finallyfinally]

I have an older family member who lives with severe (and increasing) post-operative muscular pain. He is usually of the mindset that pain should be put up with, which has meant that the usual things one should try - physio etc - have been tried, but not long-term. It’s not really clear whether this is a damaged nerve or scarring, but I really want to help.

I’ve gone down a bit of a rabbit hole in research and it’s clear that in some cases similar to his, Botox can provide 3-4 months of relief. But moving from the research to an actual practitioner seems to be tricky. He is able to go private. Does anyone know of anyone who has had this done? And if so what specialist did they use? Posting on chat for traffic - thanks 🙏

I have had therapeutic botox, and tbh if they won't do physio then there is no point doing botox. In my case the botox was used to relax a muscle out of constant contracture so that I could do the intensive physio to stretch it out for long term relief. I had it four times in total and it was pricey privately, though thankfully the neurologist did transfer me to his NHS list.

I have seen it done successfully.

But @CMOTDibbler is correct, if lack of or poor engagement there's not a lot of point (also you will obviously need to speak to the pain management team about suitability).

The evidence base shows that people who take responsibility for their health have better outcomes.

Yes, mine was similar to @CMOTDibbler in that it needed to be followed up with intensive physio.

I only needed it once and had it done here https://www.londonpainclinic.com

Hope your relative finds some relief.

Can I ask which muscle you had treated please? I've been in constant pain for years with my neck and shoulders and base of skull at the back. Paid out a fortune for physio and chiropractor over the last 2 years and its only improved about 10% at most.

I had masseter Botox for jaw grinding, and I swear it changed my life (I was waking up with headaches every single day).

I’ve also considered having it in my neck and shoulders but it’s already made such a difference, that I’m not desperate for it.

The engagement issue is complicated by other health factors. But I think at this stage - and with this level of pain - if he was hopeful of some relief he would do what needed to be done.

Thank you for the London Pain Clinic recommendation - did anyone have this
done in or near the Midlands?

@thenightsky it was in my arm. At the botox clinic I met people having it for all sorts of things, but as I say it isn't a magic bullet, it is a tool to let you address the underlying issue. Are you hypermobile? That coat hanger pain is very typical I believe

I'm not hypermobile that I'm aware of. Its just something that's crept up on me. Thinking back, probably over 20 years slow onset. Maybe more. I'm going to give that London clinic a call for a price I think. Unless I can find somewhere more East Midlands/Yorkshire/Humberside based.