Botulinum toxin A (BT) inhibits the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular injection thus producing temporary weakness and relaxation of the targeted muscles, allowing them to be stretched more easily, provided the muscle is not contracted
Two key prerequisites for the successful use of BT in management of spasticity:
- There must be a significant component of muscle over activity
- Injection must be followed by an appropriate programme of stretching and/or splinting to maximise the effects of muscle relaxation
Patients must be followed up as this treatment has a temporary effect and each patient responds differently to their initial dose. Outcomes should be based on measurable changes where possible and by benefits to functional tasks as reported by the patient.
Page last reviewed: 06 May 2020
