Treating spasticity with botulinum toxin

What is spasticity?

Spasticity is a muscle dysfunction, which is characterised by excessive muscle tension (also referred to as muscle tone) and stiffness. This can considerably impair both the ability to move and the everyday life of those affected. It is not uncommon for long-lasting spasticity to lead to secondary consequences over time, such as muscle shortening, joint contractures and misalignment, which should be avoided if possible.

Spasticity is not a disease, but rather a symptom as the result of damage to the motor pathways of the central nervous system (CNS), consisting of the brain and spinal cord. Spasticity can therefore have many causes. In addition to acquired neurological conditions, such as strokes, multiple sclerosis or brain and spinal cord injuries, spasticity can also already be present at birth, for example as the result of brain damage in early childhood (infantile cerebral palsy) or spina bifida (MMC).

How does botulinum toxin help spasticity?

Botulinum toxin is a medication that can effectively reduce spasticity. It acts by inhibiting the release of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for muscle contraction. As a result, the over-active muscles relax and spasticity is alleviated.

Our treatment approach

In our clinic we offer specialised treatment of focal spasticity with botulinum toxin. Our experienced team of doctors, physiotherapists and specialised nurses works closely together to ensure that you receive comprehensive and individual care.

Treatment process

1. Initial consultation: In a detailed consultation and examination, our specialists assess the severity of the spasticity and discuss your individual needs and expectations with you.
2. Treatment plan: Based on the initial consultation, we prepare a tailored treatment plan. When doing so, we determine which muscles need to be treated and what dose of botulinum toxin is needed for this purpose.
3. Injection: The botulinum toxin is injected directly into the affected muscles. This process is usually not very painful and, if necessary, is carried out under local anaesthetic. The precise identification of the target muscles is performed using ultrasound imaging or using EMG electrostimulation of the relevant muscle group.
4. After-care: The botulinum toxin treatment is always part of a therapy concept. We will give you detailed instructions about after-care, such as further physiotherapy appointments, in order to maximise the treatment success.
5. Monitoring of results: Around two weeks after the injection we will invite you to a check-up (which may be by phone) in order to examine the effect of the botulinum toxin and discuss what will happen next.

• Experience and expertise: Our doctors and therapists have many years of extensive experience in the treatment of spasticity.
• Individual care: Each patient receives treatment tailored to their needs, which is developed with you in a multi-professional team.
• Holistic approach: We combine medical treatment with physiotherapy and other supportive measures (equipment-based therapies, physical therapeutic measures, orthotics).

If you or a relative are affected by spasticity and are interested in treatment with botulinum toxin, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team will always be happy to answer your questions or arrange an appointment.

Registration: 

If you have any questions or would like to register for the botulinum toxin consultation, please contact the Outpatient Care Unit:

Outpatient Care Unit of the Swiss Paraplegic Centre

Guido A. Zäch Strasse 1

6207 Nottwil, Switzerland

Subject ‘Botulinum toxin for spasticity’

ambi.spz@paraplegie.ch

T. +41 41 939 58 58

F. +41 41 939 58 57

Telephone opening hours

Monday to Friday

8 am to 4 pm

Saturday and Sunday: closed