Botulinum toxin type A for rehabilitation after a spinal cord injury: a case report

A 56-year-old man became quadriplegic, bed bound, and carer-dependent secondary to cervical osteomyelitis. Three years later, he presented with generalised spasticity, crouched posture, and a large sacral pressure sore. The severe spasticity in his hips and knees prevented ischial sitting. Injections of botulinum toxin type A to both hamstrings and gastrosoleuii controlled the flexor spasticity of his lower limbs and facilitated rehabilitation and wound healing through proper positioning, wound care, stretching, and weight-bearing exercises. A few weeks later, the patient could better position himself in bed (prone lying) and on his wheelchair (ischial sitting). His spasm-related pain lessened and his mobility and activities of daily living improved. The sacral pressure sore healed completely a few months later. The patient could sleep better, feed with set-up and adaptive aids, groom, dress, and transfer himself with minimal assistance. The effects of botulinum toxin extended beyond just spasticity reduction. His upper extremity function, mobility, and social well-being were all improved through better positioning.