The Many Uses of Botox

Botox has gained most of its popularity over the past several decades as a quick injection that diminishes and potentially erases facial wrinkles. In fact, almost 7 million patients per year receive Botox injections, making it the number one non-invasive cosmetic treatment in the U.S. It’s approved by the FDA for minimizing the appearance of lateral canthal lines (also known as crow’s feet) as well as wrinkles between the eyebrows. But did you know it’s also approved to treat a variety of non-cosmetic medical conditions?

Here’s a simple explanation of how Botox injections work: they block nerve signals from communicating with certain muscles, which prevents these muscles from contracting. When used for wrinkle relaxing purposes, specific facial muscles are targeted. Likewise, when used for the relief of non-aesthetic medical conditions, Botox is injected into a particular muscle for the same effect. Below are the most popular non-FDA and FDA-approved alternative uses for botulinum toxin injections:

• Chronic migraines: Botox injections have been proven to relieve severe migraine pain with injections around the neck and head every 12 weeks.
• Excessive sweating: Also known as hyperhidrosis, many people suffer from this condition caused by overactive sweat glands. Botox can be injected in the underarms to temporarily block the nerves that stimulate sweating. This is very effective.
• Bladder weakness: An injection of Botox into the bladder muscle has a relaxing effect, reducing incontinence and other unpleasant side effects of an overactive bladder.
• Eyelid spasm: Blepharospasm, or uncontrollable blinking, is caused by involuntary muscle contractions that can be temporarily corrected with Botox.
• Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMJ): TMJ involves the jaw joint just in front of your ear – this is common in those who grind their teeth at night or clench their teeth.  TMJ is associated with sharp, radiating facial and ear pain that can be mistaken for ear infections.  Botox is incredibly helpful to those who suffer from TMJ.

Other uses for Botox that have shown promising results but have not yet gained FDA approval include the treatment of fibromyalgia, arthritis pain, and some esophageal disorders.

Whether you’re suffering chronic migraines or just want to smooth out your smile lines, Botox is a great non-invasive option. ZendyHealth can help you save 20-50% on the retail cost of wrinkle relaxers such as Botox.