Therapeutic Botox

Botox Injections for Chronic Migraines, Jaw Clenching (Bruxism/TMJ),

and Hyperhidrosis

What It Is

Botox® (onabotulinumtoxinA) is a Health Canada–approved prescription medication used in both cosmetic and therapeutic applications. In therapeutic use, it is injected into specific muscles or glands to block nerve signals that trigger muscle contraction or sweat production.

For chronic migraines, Botox is approved for patients experiencing headaches on 15 or more days per month, with each headache lasting 4 hours or longer. It can also be used off-label for jaw clenching (bruxism/TMJ) and excessive sweating (primary hyperhidrosis).

How It Works

Botulinum toxin type A inhibits the release of acetylcholine at the neuromuscular junction or at cholinergic autonomic nerve terminals. This prevents the targeted muscle from contracting as strongly, or reduces the activity of sweat glands. The effect is temporary and gradually wears off as nerve endings regenerate.

Relief typically lasts 3–4 months for muscle-related conditions and 6–9 months for hyperhidrosis.

Chronic Migraines

Mechanism: Botox is injected into muscles of the forehead, temples, scalp, neck, and shoulders according to the PREEMPT injection protocol (31 injections across 7 head/neck areas). This reduces peripheral sensitization of nociceptive fibers, which in turn decreases central sensitization involved in migraine pathophysiology.

Evidence: Clinical trials (PREEMPT 1 and 2) demonstrated a significant reduction in the number of headache days per month compared to placebo.

Typical Treatment Schedule: Every 12 weeks.
Expected Duration of Effect: ~3 months.

Jaw Clenching / Bruxism (Masseter Hypertrophy)

Mechanism: Injections into the masseter muscles weaken overactive jaw muscles by blocking acetylcholine release, reducing clenching forces and alleviating associated pain or dental wear.

Evidence: Multiple small randomized controlled trials and case series report decreased electromyographic activity of the masseter and reduction in pain scores following injection.

Typical Treatment Schedule: Every 3–4 months.
Expected Duration of Effect: ~3–4 months.

Primary Hyperhidrosis

Mechanism: Intradermal Botox injections block sympathetic cholinergic nerve signals to eccrine sweat glands, reducing sweat production in the treated area.

Evidence: Randomized controlled trials have demonstrated a 75–80% reduction in sweating in treated underarms, palms, or soles. The effect is temporary but reproducible with repeat treatments.

Typical Treatment Schedule: Every 6–9 months.
Expected Duration of Effect: ~6–9 months.

Procedure Overview

Consultation with the Physician – The patient meets with our doctor to review their medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. The physician determines whether they are an appropriate candidate for therapeutic Botox based on the specific condition and treatment guidelines.

Prescription Issued – If the patient is a candidate, the physician issues a prescription for Botox (onabotulinumtoxinA).

Product Acquisition and Handling – Our staff personally pick up the Botox from the pharmacy to ensure correct cold-chain transport and immediate placement into our medical-grade refrigeration system, in compliance with manufacturer storage requirements (2–8°C).

Injection Appointment – The patient returns for their scheduled treatment. A licensed nurse administers the Botox injections according to the physician’s treatment plan, using the correct dosing and injection sites for the diagnosed condition.

Post-Treatment Instructions – The patient receives written aftercare guidelines, including avoiding rubbing the treated area for 24 hours and monitoring for any side effects. Most patients resume normal activities immediately.

At ALux Spa, we prioritize patient education as much as treatment. Our team explains each step of the therapeutic Botox process, including how it works, what to expect, and how to monitor results. By ensuring our patients understand their condition and treatment plan, we help them take an active role in their care—supporting their goal of reducing symptoms and returning to normal daily activities with greater comfort and confidence.