What Are My Treatment Options for Cervical Dystonia?

Cervical dystonia (CD) is an uncommon neurological condition that causes severe and often painful muscle contractions. These contractions can lead to an abnormal head position, such as tilting or turning of the head. Muscle spasms and tremors can seriously reduce the quality of life of people living with CD.

While there is no known cure for cervical dystonia, there are treatments in Wayne, PA designed to help manage symptoms. Board-certified physician Dr. Asare Christian can help you function better at home, work, and in social situations at Aether Medicine. Our patients have reported excellent results from neurotoxin medicine.

Neurotoxins like BOTOX®, XEOMIN®, Dysport®, and MYOBLOC® can change your life. Learn more by reading below or calling a member of our team for a comprehensive CD assessment.

Have you been diagnosed with CD?

Cervical dystonia is a serious condition that can be difficult to treat. It most often occurs in middle-aged patients but can happen at any stage in life. CD is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions that can lead to abnormal head and neck movement. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. If you think you have CD, it's best to consult with a specialist who can explain your condition and treatment options before it gets worse.

What is neurotoxin medicine?

Neurotoxin medicine is designed to block signals between muscles and nerves, which leads to reduced muscle contractions. This is accomplished through neurotoxins such as BOTOX, XEOMIN, Dysport, and MYOBLOC. While these injectable brands are more commonly associated with cosmetic treatments, they can be used for medicinal purposes in Wayne, PA. Blocking muscle contractions can lead to a significant reduction in pain, muscle spasms, and tremors.

Does neurotoxin medicine cure CD?

Neurotoxin medicine is not a cure for your CD, but it can help you overcome the pain and embarrassment of involuntary movement. It works by temporarily affecting signals between your brain, muscles, and nerves. When injected into muscles on the head or neck, neurotoxins prevent muscle spasms and make it easier to maintain a comfortable head position.

If you're considering neurotoxin medicine at Aether Medicine, Dr. Christian will discuss your condition and medical history to determine if this is the appropriate treatment for you. We then review different product options and measure the appropriate dosage. Our team monitors the effects of your injections with repeated examinations, and we can always adjust treatment as needed.

When can I expect an improvement in CD?

Neurotoxin treatment may provide significant improvement in your symptoms within 14 days after your first injection. As with most medications, you can expect some side effects that will subside over time. This includes minor irritation or discomfort at the injection site, headache, and neck pain. We may schedule follow-up appointments every 3 – 4 months, or as needed to maintain your results. Our goal is to help you live life fully without the limitations of cervical dystonia.

Learn more about neurotoxins

The best treatment option for cervical dystonia depends on your age, the severity of your symptoms, and how quickly you want to recover. Whether it’s traditional solutions or neurotoxin medicine options, like BOTOX, Dr. Asare Christian and the specialists at Aether Medicine can help you meet your health goals. Give us a call in Wayne, PA to find out what might work best for you when it comes to treating cervical dystonia.