Botox will be used by the NHS for treatment of limb problems Lesley Berry, 27, developed dystonia and recovered with jabs Botox stops muscles from spasming, and restores control of the limb
By Antonia Hoyle
PUBLISHED: 17:00 EST, 8 March 2014 | UPDATED: 17:01 EST, 8 March 2014
It's normally known as an anti-wrinkle jab but for those crippled by stroke, Botox can be a lifeline, helping to restore lost movement.
Now, more NHS patients will benefit after medical watchdog the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence licensed the muscle-freezing drug for treatment of limb problems.
It follows a trial of 120 patients with post-stroke ankle difficulties which found that Botox injections enabled them to regain control and movement.
Lesley Berry, 27, from Walsall, developed muscle spasms following a stroke but is having Botox jabs to aid her recovery
This is one of the most important advances for years, says Professor Anthony Ward, of the North Staffordshire Rehabilitation Centre. By allowing the ankle to function more normally, this can bring important mobility and physical benefits to patients, even those who have been suffering from this condition for many years.
Stroke affects at least 150,000 Britons a year and there are more than a million stroke survivors in the UK. Up to 30 per cent live with muscle stiffness, known as post-stroke spasticity.
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The latest lifeline for patients paralysed by strokes... Botox: Anti-wrinkle jab can help restore lost movement