Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Botox is a prescription medicine (a type of botulinum toxin) injected into muscles to block nerve signals. Medically, it is FDA-approved to treat several conditions, including Chronic Migraine (headaches 15 days/month) and Cervical Dystonia (involuntary neck muscle contractions).

For Chronic Migraine, Botox is thought to work by blocking the release of specific chemicals (neurotransmitters) that carry pain signals from the nerves to the brain. For Cervical Dystonia, it works by temporarily weakening the overactive muscles that cause the abnormal head position and painful spasms.

Yes, it is the same drug (onabotulinumtoxinA), but the dosage, injection pattern, and muscle targets are completely different for therapeutic conditions like chronic migraine and cervical dystonia compared to cosmetic use. These medical procedures must be performed by a trained specialist.

For both Chronic Migraine and Cervical Dystonia, injections are typically repeated every 10 to 12 weeks (approximately every three months). This is because the effects of the toxin gradually wear off as the body regenerates new nerve endings.

Orthovisc is a brand of viscosupplementation used to treat knee pain caused by osteoarthritis (OA). It is a sterile, non-surgical solution injected directly into the knee joint. The active ingredient, high molecular weight hyaluronan, is similar to the substance that occurs naturally in healthy joint fluid.

In an arthritic knee, the natural lubricating fluid (synovial fluid) breaks down, making the joint less protected. Orthovisc acts as a lubricant and shock absorber to supplement the joint fluid, reduce friction, and potentially decrease pain and inflammation.

You are generally a candidate if you have knee OA and have not received adequate pain relief from conservative, non-pharmacologic treatments like simple pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen), exercise, and physical therapy.

No. Orthovisc is not a steroid. It is a hyaluronic acid injection. Unlike steroids, which primarily reduce inflammation, Orthovisc is intended to restore the lubricating and shock-absorbing properties of the joint fluid.

Clinical studies show that the beneficial effects of an Orthovisc series can last for up to six months (26 weeks). The duration of relief can vary based on the severity of your OA and your activity level.