Typically when we think of Botox, we think of using the drug to diminish wrinkles, creating a flawless, youthful look.   But did you know that Botox was first used in the medical field to treat strabismus, (a condition where the eyes do not look at the same point, typically causing crossed eyes)?  Botox was first used for medical purposes in 1977 was approved by the FDA in 1989 to treat strabismus and blepharospasm (uncontrollable eye blinking), but it was not approved by the FDA as a wrinkle reducer until 2002.  Today, Botox is still used to treat numerous non-cosmetic disorders, from excessive sweating to migraines. Below are some of the most common medical uses for Botox.

Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is a condition that causes excessive sweating.  Many people turn to Botox when topical methods prove unsuccessful. Botox is injected just under the skin to block chemical signals from the nerves in the area that stimulate sweat glands.  As a result, the sweat glands do not produce sweat. Treatments are necessary every six to seven months.

Chronic Migraines

Botox has been proven to reduce chronic migraines in adults.  The drug is injected in seven areas along the nose, temples, forehead, back of the head, neck and upper back.  Although medical professionals do not know exactly why, the symptoms and amount of migraines are reduced due to the Botox injections.  Patients require treatment every six months to a year.

Muscle Spasms

Botox is used to treat a wide variety of muscle spasms and contractions, as it blocks the nerves from communicating with the muscles.  It was first approved by the FDA to treat strabismus and blepharospasm, or uncontrollable blinking.  It also is used to treat spasticity in the upper limbs, or contracted muscles in the elbows, wrists and hands that inhibit movement.  Another type of muscle contractions it treats is Spasmodic torticollis, also known as cervical dystonia (CD).  CD can cause your head to involuntarily and painfully twist or turn to one side, or tilt forward or backward uncontrollably.  Most patients need treatments every 4 months to a year.

Urinary Incontinence

Sometimes the brain and the bladder do not communicate properly, causing leakage, accidents, sudden urges to use the restroom, and frequent urination.  Botox is injected into the muscles in the bladder, stopping the involuntary contractions that cause the urinary problems.  The injections have reduced, and in some cases, stopped the urinary incontinence entirely. Injections must be given every four to nine months.