I used to carry a license in my practice to administer Botox for patients with TMJ related pain, including headaches. Today, I would like to share my opinion and experience with this treatment so that you may understand why I let my license to administer Botox expire by choice, without renewal.
Although Botox may temporarily alleviate “specific” myofascial pain, I do not feel it is necessarily the best long-term method of treatment for the type of pain I see in my private practice, which is TMJ and head pain. Rather, I believe in identifying the real true culprit causing the pain. To do so, a very detailed examination and imaging in the form of MRI’s and CT Scanning is an absolute necessity. In practice, I normally see dislocated and compressed structures in the Temporomandibular Joints (TMJ’s) such as herniated disks. Botox just cannot resolve this problem, proper alignment and function is key to resolving this type of pain.
It works by basically paralyzing muscle for roughly 4-6 weeks at best, and to achieve that length of relief a very hefty portion in several muscles must be administered, repeatedly. I want to point out that Botox cannot realign dislocated structures. It can only paralyze muscles.
I realize Botox is very popular. I also realize that it appears to be a “quick fix” when it is not. The longer I am in practice the more I appreciate the complexity of the body and the best treatment for it!
Feel free to call my office with any questions!
Yours for Better Health,
Dr. Christine R. Wenrick
