Does Botox really help with migraines? Most people think Botox is for cosmetic use only. However, in 2010 Botox was FDA (U.S. Food and Drug Administration) approved to treat patients with chronic migraines. The FDA defines chronic migraines as 15 or more migraine days per month. Many patients have reported success since 2010.

Therapeutic Use

Most people do not know that Botox is used to treat several disorders such as:

1. Chronic Migraines
2. Strabismus (eye muscle disorder)
3. Excessive under-arm sweating
4. Neck muscle spasms
5. Eyelid spasms
6. Bell’s Palsy

All of the disorders have some effect on the nerves and muscles. When Botox is administered for therapeutic reasons, it is usually by a specialist. If chronic migraines are your primary concern, you should look for a headache specialist or neurologist. That being said, we treat a lot of patients for cosmetic purposes who report fewer migraines as a side benefit.

Botox for migraines is typically injected in different areas of the head and neck and is supposed to prevent migraines before they start. It may take two to three sessions before patients start to notice improvement.

For spasms and Bell’s Palsy, Dr. Henstrom specializes in nerve disorders and treats patients with Botox often. Learn more about facial nerve damage and treatment options HERE.

Cosmetic

Botox was first FDA approved to temporarily improve the appearance of glabellar lines, which are the lines between your eyebrows.  Now, Botox is FDA approved to be injected to treat forehead lines, glabellar lines and crow’s feet (lines around the eyes). Botox works by temporarily weakening muscle activity for 2-5 months.

Does insurance cover Botox Treatments?

Insurance usually only covers treatments that are deemed medically necessary. Unfortunately, most Botox treatments are considered cosmetic and are not covered by insurance. However, if Botox is being done by a specialist for medical purposes, it may be covered by insurance.

Whether you are getting Botox for cosmetic or therapeutic purposes, it should be done every 2-5 months. It is very important for Botox to be injected by someone who is a well qualified medical professional with years of experience.

For more information about Botox please contact us at (801)776-2220 or contact us HERE.

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