Physiotherapists Use Botox-style Injection To Treat Stroke Patients

AN INJECTION often associated with cosmetic surgery is being used by physiotherapists in the treatment of patients who have suffered stroke, multiple sclerosis or head injuries.

For some, the name “Botox” relates to surgery used to change the way people look, but many do not know that the toxin it derives from has important medical uses.

At City Hospital, botulinum toxin-A injection therapy is used to treat muscle stiffness caused by damage to the central nervous system and now six physiotherapists have been trained to administer the treatment.

“We don’t know of any other unit in the country with so many physiotherapists administering the injection,” explained Dawn Hicklin, physiotherapist at the Trust.

“It is a kind of role reversal because medics are now attending workshops and clinics that are physiotherapy led to learn and develop their physiotherapy skills.”

The physiotherapists work alongside Dr Steve Sturman, consultant in neurology and neurorehabilitation at the Trust.

He said: “We have realised that physiotherapists are the best people to assess the motor function of patients. It is also an extended role they can pursue, which is very helpful.”