Investigation of the Effects of Upper Extremity Botulinum Toxin Application on Forearm Muscle Thickness and Motor Recovery in Patients With Hemiplegia

Investigation of the Effects of Upper Extremity Botulinum Toxin Application on Forearm Muscle Thickness and Motor Recovery in Patients With Hemiplegia

In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of the botulinum toxin (BoNT) application on muscle thickness and motor recovery in stroke patients.

Stroke is the second leading cause of death worldwide. It poses a major risk for disability. Its prevalence is high in developing countries. Spasticity is among the complications of stroke. Excessive spasticity can cause impairments and limitations in patients' motor activity and participation in daily life. Botulinum toxin (BoNT) injection is one of the preferred treatment options. Studies on botulinum toxin administration in stroke patients generally focus on treatment efficacy and motor recovery. Studies examining the effects of botulinum toxin administration on both muscle thickness and motor recovery are few in number. In this study, we aimed to examine the effects of the botulinum toxin (BoNT) application on upper extremity muscle thickness and motor recovery in stroke patients.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients must be between the ages of 30-75.
• Patients who received botulinum toxin injection to their upper extremities at least 3 months after a cerebrovascular accident.
• Patients must have had cerebrovascular disease for the first time.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of a preexisting musculoskeletal deformity in the upper extremity where botulinum toxin was administered
• Patients with spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy
• Presence of malignancy.