Botulinum toxin type A therapy in chronic pain disorders

This self-directed learning module highlights that the underlying problem in many types of muscle pain disorders is a distortion of critical structures that causes functional deficits and pain. An objective of treatment is to reverse this distortion, enabling repair of damaged tissues and strengthening of weakened muscles. Administering botulinum toxin type A (BTX-A; Botox) to reduce muscle tone and overactivity warrants consideration as part of an overall treatment approach that includes physical therapy to help restore normal muscle length and biomechanical balance to improve the prospect of ensuring long-term relief from associated pain. This article specifically focuses on pertinent review articles, results of controlled and open-trial data, and case reports to assess the role of BTX-A treatment in chronic pain disorders. OVERALL LEARNING OBJECTIVE: To review the clinical trial data of the safety and efficacy of BTX-A for the treatment of chronic pain syndromes associated with muscle disorders.