Effect of intramuscular botulinum toxin injection on upper limb spasticity in stroke patients.

Abstract

To evaluate the therapeutic effect of intramuscular injection of botulinum toxin on spasticity of the upper limb, with emphasis on its influence over limb function. An open-label, noncontrolled trial with a duration of 12 wk was designed to determine the safety and efficacy of intramuscular botulinum toxin A injection in the treatment of 16 patients with stroke with spastic hemiparesis. Electromyographically guided intramuscular botulinum toxin A injections were applied to the spastic limbs. A detailed scale system was used for the evaluation of muscle tone and functional changes induced by botulinum toxin A treatment. No major side effect secondary to botulinum toxin A injection was reported. Statistically significant (P < 0.05) improvements of muscle tone, joint range of motion, hand muscle strength, and muscular pain were seen after the injection. The improvements lasted up to 8-12 wk after the treatment. However, there was no significant functional improvement except in two of the patients. Botulinum toxin A injection may help relieve upper limb spasticity and pain in patients with stroke. Its effect on function is probably determined by case selection.