Botulinum Toxin Injections for Muscle Spasticity in Adults – PIL1072 Version 3

This leaflet gives you information about botulinum toxin injections for the treatment of muscle spasticity in adults.

What is muscle spasticity?

Muscle spasticity is when your muscles stay contracted (pulled tight) all of the time causing stiffness and tightness in your joints. This can then cause pain and problems with everyday activities.

Usually spasticity is caused by damage to parts of the brain or spinal cord that control movement.

What is botulinum toxin?

Botulinum toxin is a naturally occurring chemical, produced by bacteria (microscopic bugs) that has been developed into a treatment for spasticity.

How does it work?

Botulinum toxin works by stopping the overactive muscles contracting (spasticity). This is done by preventing the release of a chemical between the nerve and the muscle, leading to temporary weakness and relaxation of the affected muscle.

How is it given?

The botulinum toxin is given by an injection into a single muscle or a small group of muscles that have been affected.

How long does it take to work?

The toxin takes effect gradually over 2 weeks, the maximum effect can be seen after 10 to 14 days. The effects of the toxin are temporary and can last between 3 to 4 months.

What are the benefits of the treatment?

• The toxin reduces the stiffness in those muscles that have been injected.
• Try and maintain or increase your range of movement.
• Try and reduce your pain and discomfort.
• Try and improve your posture.

Botulinum toxin is not suitable for people who:

• Are allergic to botulinum toxin or human albumin (a blood product you might be given in hospital).
• Have an infection at the injection site.
• Have had a botulinum toxin injection within the last 3 months.
• Feel unwell.
• Are pregnant.

Are there any side effects?

• Pain or bruising where the injection was given.
• Flu-like symptoms (fatigue and headache).
• Excessive muscle weakness.
• Skin rashes/itchiness.
• Temporary swallowing problems.

Are there any other treatments?

Other treatments include oral anti-spasticity medications. These are used to treat generalised spasticity and not specific muscle groups. If you would like further information, please speak to your spasticity management team.

What will happen before the injection?

You will be seen by your spasticity management team who will again explain the reasons for your injection and the injection itself. When you fully understand the procedure you will be asked to sign a consent form, if you have not already done so.

Comments, concerns, compliments or complaints

Patient Experience Team (PET)

We are continually trying to improve the services we provide. We want to know what we’re doing well or if there’s anything which we can improve, that’s why the Patient Experience Team (PET) is here to help. Our Team is here to try to resolve your concerns. The office is based at the University Hospital of North Tees if you wish to discuss concerns in person. Our contact details are:

Telephone: 01642 624719
Freephone: 0800 092 0084
Opening hours: Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 4:00pm
Email: [email protected]

Out of hours

Out of hours if you wish to speak to a senior member of Trust staff, please contact the hospital switchboard who will bleep the appropriate person.
Telephone: 01642 617617

Patient, Public and People with Lived Experience

We are looking for patients to share their experiences of healthcare and to join our Involvement Bank. Working with the patients, carers, families and the general population we support in making decisions about their care can lead to better health outcomes, increased patient satisfaction and a better overall experience. We want to listen and work with you in shaping the future of your healthcare services. To find out more about the Involvement Bank go to our website or contact us at:

Website: www.nth.nhs.uk/about/community/people-with-lived-experience
Email: [email protected]

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The Trust has developed Data Protection policies in accordance with Data Protection Legislation (UK General Data Protection Regulations and Data Protection Act 2018) and the Freedom of Information Act 2000. All of our staff respect these policies and confidentiality is adhered to at all times. If you require further information on how we process your information please see our Privacy Notices.

Telephone: 01642 383551

Email: [email protected]Privacy Notices

Leaflet feedback

This leaflet has been produced in partnership with patients and carers. All patient leaflets are regularly reviewed, and any suggestions you have as to how it may be improved are extremely valuable. Please write to the Clinical Governance team at:

Email: [email protected]