The use of Botulinum toxin is usually associated with beauty, also known as aesthetics.

Botulinum toxin injections are used to reduce fine lines and wrinkles making the skin appear smoother and younger. Botox is a brand name for Botulinum toxin; Dysport, Nuceiva, and Xeomin are other brand names. All of these products fall under the category of ‘neuromodulators’.

Neuromodulators are used to change nerve activity at a specific site. In addition to aesthetic effects, neuromodulators can relax muscles that may be the cause of specific pain patterns and reduce nerve activity within sweat glands, helping you sweat less. ‘Therapeutic Neuromodulators’ or ‘Therapeutic Botox’ refer to the use of neuromodulators to help with these medical concerns.

How Do Neuromodulators Work?

Botulinum toxin, the active ingredient in neuromodulators, blocks the release of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine. Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that deliver signals from nerve cells to other cells in the body. Blocking these messengers leads to the muscles and/or glands connected to that nerve to be less active. (1) Depending on the areas injected, neuromodulators can reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles; (2) reduce muscle tension and spasms in the neck, jaw, and face; (3) or reduce activity within sweat glands. (4) Effects are temporary; treatments are typically repeated on a 2-4 month schedule to continue the effects.

Applications of Therapeutic Neuromodulators

Migraines

Neck pain

Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder

Trigger points

Bruxism (teeth grinding and jaw clenching)

Hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating)

What Can I Expect?

During your first visit, we will talk about your symptoms and complete a detailed physical exam to determine your needs. Depending on how much time you have, you may receive neuromodulator treatment within your first visit or at a follow-up visit. During treatment, the neuromodulator will be injected into the appropriate areas; the area treated will depend on your symptoms. A very small needle is used, as the injections are only surface level. Ice or numbing cream can be applied before the injections to help reduce pain.

After the injections, you will be able to return to your normal routine, but we recommend you avoid rubbing or putting pressure on the treatment sites for the first 24 hours following treatment.

You will start noticing the effects of the injections within 1-14 days. Typically, the effects of neuromodulators last 2-4 months, but may vary depending on your metabolism and activity level.

Will Insurance Cover the Costs of Therapeutic Neuromodulator Injections?

Your insurance may cover the cost of therapeutic neuromodulator injections. Typically, insurance providers ask for information to show that you have tried alternative treatments with no improvement in symptoms, along with a letter or signed documentation from your Doctor. We suggest contacting your insurance provider directly to check your level of coverage.

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