Botox for Muscle Pain & Spasm
Board-Certified Orthopedic Surgeon
Precision Muscle Relaxation for Chronic Pain and Recovery
At Divina, we offer Botox injections for muscle pain, spasm, and tension performed by Dr. Mark Mikhael, our board-certified orthopedic surgeon. While most patients know Botox for cosmetic wrinkle reduction, it is also a highly effective medical treatment for chronic muscle tightness, nerve-related pain, and movement limitation.
By relaxing overactive or spastic muscles, Botox helps restore balance, relieve pain, and improve mobility—offering a nonsurgical option for patients who haven’t found relief with physical therapy or medication.
AREAS OF USE
Botox works by blocking nerve signals that trigger excessive muscle contraction. When injected into targeted muscles, it allows the muscle to relax and lengthen, reducing both pain and compression on nearby joints or nerves.
In addition, Botox has been shown to inhibit pain-signaling neurotransmitters, helping calm chronic pain even when the source isn’t purely muscular.
Areas Treated
- Neck and Shoulders: For tension, whiplash, or posture-related strain
- Upper and Lower Back: To reduce spasms and pressure from chronic overuse
- Hips and Glutes: For piriformis or sciatic-related pain
- Calves and Hamstrings: For post-injury spasticity or stiffness
Conditions Treated with Botox for Pain
- Chronic neck, shoulder, or upper-back tension
- Lower back pain due to muscle spasm
- Post-surgical muscle contractures or stiffness
- Piriformis syndrome and sciatic nerve pain
- TMJ or jaw tension
- Muscle imbalance after orthopedic injury
- Spasticity after trauma or repetitive strain
Spine & Neck
- Cervical or lumbar facet joints: For localized spine arthritis and joint inflammation.
- Sacroiliac (SI) joint: For lower back or pelvic pain.
- Paraspinal muscles: For chronic muscle strain or myofascial pain.
- Pelvic region: For coccyx pain, pelvic instability, or postpartum musculoskeletal recovery.
Step-by-Step: Your PRP Visit with Dr. Mikhael
1. 1. Consultation & Evaluation
- Dr. Mikhael performs a detailed evaluation, reviewing your pain history, physical findings, and prior treatments. He identifies the overactive muscle groups and determines whether Botox is the right next step or should be combined with PRP, physical therapy, or trigger-point work.
2. Treatment Mapping
- Using anatomy and, when needed, ultrasound or EMG guidance, Dr. Mikhael maps precise injection points to ensure accuracy and minimize discomfort. This individualized plan targets the muscles contributing to your pain pattern.
3. Injection Procedure
- After the skin is cleansed, small doses of Botox are injected directly into the selected muscles using a fine needle. The process typically takes 10–20 minutes, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.
4. Immediate Recovery
- You can return to normal activities immediately. Mild soreness or heaviness in the injected muscles can occur for 24–48 hours. Avoid strenuous exercise the same day, but gentle movement is encouraged.
5. Results Timeline
- Days 3–7: Muscles begin to relax.
- Weeks 2–4: Noticeable reduction in tightness and pain.
- Weeks 6–12: Full effect achieved; range of motion and comfort improve.Results typically last 3–4 months, after which maintenance sessions can sustain progress.
6. How Many Treatments Will I Need?
Most orthopedic concerns require 1–3 sessions spaced 4–6 weeks apart. Chronic tendon injuries or multi-site arthritis may need a series. Many patients schedule maintenance once or twice per year, depending on activity level and goals.
At Divina Dermatology, we believe that true wellness is about supporting the body as a whole. That’s why we integrate orthopedic and musculoskeletal health into our approach, offering natural, restorative therapies such as joint rejuvenation, PRP injections, and pain management for the knees, shoulders, and spine. Just as our dermatology treatments restore and revitalize the skin, these regenerative orthopedic procedures help reduce inflammation, improve mobility, and enhance overall vitality. By combining expertise in both skin health and orthopedic wellness, we provide patients with a truly comprehensive path to looking, feeling, and functioning at their very best.
Dr. Mikhael- PRP Injection Specialist
- Orthopedic surgeon–led evaluation and ultrasound-guided precision
- Personalized protocols tailored to joint anatomy, tissue quality, and activity goals
- Integrated care model: we can pair orthopedic PRP with physical therapy, mobility training, and Divina’s broader wellness and aesthetic offerings for whole-patient results
Before Your Appointment:
- Avoid alcohol and blood thinners for 24 hours if possible.
- Continue medications unless otherwise directed.
- Eat a light meal and hydrate well.
Aftercare & Activity
- Avoid rubbing or massaging the area for 24 hours.
- Resume normal movement and stretching the next day.
- Relief develops gradually; full results appear by week two.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Botox for pain covered by insurance?
- Insurance does not cover Botox for orthopedic or muscular pain because it’s considered an elective or off-label use. Botox is often used alongside regenerative and physical therapies for a more comprehensive recovery. Many patients combine it with PRP injections, shockwave therapy, or targeted rehabilitation to enhance results. Dr. Mikhael customizes every plan to ensure treatments work together safely and effectively.
2. How long do the results last?
- Most patients begin noticing relief within 7 to 10 days, with continued improvement over the next two to four weeks.You can expect results to last around three to four months, depending on the muscle treated and your body’s response. Over time, the treated muscles gradually regain normal function as the nerve signals return. With consistent maintenance sessions, pain relief and mobility improvements can be sustained year-round.
3. Is there any downtime after treatment?
- No, there’s no true downtime after Botox for pain—patients can resume daily activities immediately. Some mild soreness or heaviness in the injected area may occur for a day or two. It’s best to avoid strenuous exercise on the day of treatment, but gentle stretching and movement are encouraged the next day.
4. Will I still be able to have surgery later if I need it?
- Yes, Botox is completely reversible and does not interfere with future surgical procedures. In fact, many orthopedic surgeons use it pre- or post-operatively to help reduce pain and muscle stiffness. It can also buy valuable time by relieving symptoms and potentially delaying the need for surgery.