Botox: Beyond the Wrinkes

Of course the injections can be used for face sculpting such as filling in wrinkles, enlarging the eyes, lifting the eyebrows, and strategically adding volume, and it can also be used in the place of lifts and other enhancing surgeries for goals such as pouty lips, sagging necks, and dimpled chins, but because of its popular affiliation with these cosmetic procedures, many don’t realize that it can be used in several other medical situations.
Hyperhidrosis, commonly known as excessive sweating, effects about ten percent of the population as either an isolated disorder or a side effect of medications or underlying medical problems. Underarms are the most known treated; however, the hands, feet, and face are also possibilities for treatment, and because this condition is often related to a medical issue, insurance is likely to cover the procedure.
Also medical reasons for injections, migraine headaches and TMJ, pain in the jaw, neck, and ears, can be successfully treated with Botox injections in cases for which medications are minimally effective. The procedure decreases muscle tension in turn relieving the pain associated with these conditions. It is important to note that using the procedure instead of medication may not be covered by insurance unless medications have been exhaustively unsuccessful.
Possibly the oldest use is for the treatment of conditions associated with Cerebral Palsy. Because Botox injections relax muscles, various side issues can be addressed for those with the disability. It can be used for increased mobility either by treating spasticity of the legs or by treating the arms and hands to aid in operating a wheel chair and for other Cerebral Palsy related spastic conditions such as torticollis, tendonitis, and flexing issues. Everyday actions, often those that are the focus of occupational therapy, such as eating, tying shoes, pinching, and typing can also be improved with the injections.
Botox cosmetic is not currently FDA approved for some medical conditions but doctors believe that is helpful and continue to offer it because for some, increased quality of life counter balances the associated risks; for those unapproved medical conditions, insurance will not cover the cost of the procedure.