Neurotoxin injections have shown promising results in treating tennis elbow, with significant pain reduction reported in patients.
Neurotoxin injections have shown promising results in treating tennis elbow, with significant pain reduction reported in patients compared to those receiving a placebo. This innovative treatment has proven to be highly effective in promptly alleviating the symptoms of tennis elbow by targeting the irritated and inflamed tendons directly. The administration of a toxin injection for tennis elbow is considered a superior therapeutic option for individuals of both genders.
Neurotoxin is considered a safe procedure for tennis elbow. It offers significant pain reduction and improves the condition with minimal side effects. Toxin injections can help muscles relax, rest, and heal by reducing repetitive movements and inflammation, allowing surrounding muscles to become stronger. One example is the extensor muscle of the elbow, a common cause of tennis elbow, which can be temporarily paralyzed with the neurotoxin to relieve pressure and allow other muscles to strengthen.
Physical therapy for tennis elbow can be more effective after neurotoxin treatment, as it can help localize strengthening efforts to the affected muscles. Overall, toxin injections can provide long-term relief by allowing muscles to heal and function more effectively.
This highly specialized approach is recommended for individuals seeking treatment for tennis elbow, particularly those who specialize in corticosteroid injections as the injection sites are similar. A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal suggests that Botulinum toxin shows promise as a treatment for chronic tennis elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis.
Physicians in Tehran conducted a study at the Imam Khomeini Hospital Complex involving 48 patients with chronic tennis elbow. The patients were randomly assigned to receive either Botox injections or a saline placebo. The injection sites were tailored to each patient’s anatomy.
The results of the study showed that Botox injections, when administered with precision based on anatomical measurements, effectively reduced pain at rest in patients with chronic refractory lateral epicondylitis. However, it is important to note that a potential side effect of Botox treatment is weakness in finger extension, making it unsuitable for patients requiring full finger functionality.
Although neurotoxin injections for tennis elbow are typically considered a safe medical intervention, it is common for individuals to encounter certain side effects. These may include, but are not necessarily limited to, mild bruising and temporary weakness in the extension of the middle finger.
Providers advise patients to follow post-injection care guidelines, avoiding excessive rubbing or massaging of the site. Individuals with infections at the injection site or allergies to injection ingredients should refrain from using Botox.
Costs varies on pricing of units of toxin, but here are some reported amounts of units used.
One study injected 60 units of Dysport (equivalent to about 25 units of Botox) into one group of patients and normal saline into another group to treat tennis elbow. Patients who received Dysport reported less pain after the treatment. Another study found that injecting 50 units of botulinum toxin type A also provided pain relief for patients with tennis elbow. The amount of neuromodulators needed for treatment may vary among individuals, with some requiring more units and others needing less.
