Some people might say that “Botox” has become a negative word. When most hear it, they likely think of celebrities with frozen-looking, overstretched faces and unnaturally glossy skin. Or, those mallows who’ve had too much work done and were called out by grocery store tabloids.
Did you know that Botox originally wasn’t created for cosmetic purposes? It may be most commonly known for reducing wrinkles, but there are other medical uses for the substance as well.
The Beginning
Regardless of where Botox is injected, it will have the same result. Botulinum toxin comes from a bacteria called Clostridium botulinum, which is incredibly poisonous. Despite this, the paralyzing effect can be helpful in medical treatments like Botox injections.
Crossed Eyes and Eyelid Spasms
Botox was created to help people with crossed eyes, however case studies soon revealed that it also stopped muscle spasms on the face.
According to the America Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2017, 7.23 million Botox procedures were performed in America- 2% more than 2016. as the cosmetic number increased over 40 years, however, doctors reported other side effects from the injections.
The U.S Food and Drug Administration has only approved seven uses for Botox such as crossed eyes and eyelid spasms., but there are many more off-label uses that have become popularized.
Migraines
Botox is mainly known for being a cosmetic treatment, but it also has therapeutic uses. One of these approved uses by the FDA is for migraines.
The initial reports came from patients who were getting Botox injections for crossed eyes and eyelid spasms, they started saying that their headaches became less frequent.
Foot Pain
Botox can also come in handy for foot pain prevention. When we walk, our weight is usually evenly distributed across both feet. However, people who often wear heels or are athletes may put more stress on their feet which can lead to discomfort.
You can think of Botox like an orthopedic pad, but it’s injected into your foot instead of placed in your shoe. Studies have shown it to be more effective than using a steroid.
Stomach Issues
The injections can also be useful in treating patients who have trouble digesting food. The stomach is connected to the small intestine at the duodenum, and that junction involves a muscle called the pyloric sphincter.
An injection of Botox can relax the muscle and help facilitate digestion. Essentially, it turns the valve into the “on” position. This has proven especially useful for patients experiencing these symptoms after surgery for esophageal cancer.
Other Uses
Although Botox is commonly known for its cosmetic uses, it has been tested to treat an array of other conditions as well including depression, premature ejaculation, and even painful sex.