Botox Side Effect - neck pain
Has anyone had neck pain from botox. I have been getting botox for nearly 4 years now and don't ever recall getting pain in my neck/back of my head, upper back/shoulders which leads to a vicious headache which then becomes a migraine. I was feeling much better b/c I recently went through menopause and finally saw a light at the end of the tunnel after 33 years of 2-4 migraines per week. Now I want to cry b/c my neck hurts daily and I can't figure this out. I recently switched botox doctor and the last guy used to inject these areas that I am now complaining about. I am wondering if I am having withdrawal just in those areas...but I have read that a botox side effect can be neck pain. Can't win. Anyone have any suggestions or thoughts?
I hear how frustrated you feel, Pinky17. It is awful to suddenly be having new pain when you had been making progress on your migraine symptoms through treatments and menopause. Neck pain can be a common migraine symptom for some, as well as being a potential side-effect from Botox. While we cannot offer medical advice over the internet (for your safety!) these articles might be of interest to you:
https://migraine.com/blog/neck-pain-and-migraine/
https://migraine.com/migraine-treatment/botox/
https://migraine.com/blog/migraine-and-menopause/
I would encourage you to also reach out to your doctor, if you haven't already, to gain her/his advice and expertise! I hope the neck pain begins to ease for you. Wishing you a gentle day. ~Allyson (Migraine.com team)
Hi Pinky17,
How frustrating! I'm so sorry you are experiencing additional neck pain.
Have you mentioned this to the doctor? If not, I would encourage you to. I do wonder if this doctor is correctly trained in the protocol for migraine attacks? There is a specific pattern that needs to be followed to get the best benefit. This link from the makers of Botox has pictures (I really like) that are helpful; https://www.botoxmedical.com/ChronicMigraine/DosingAndAdministration/ProvenInjectionSites
This has a LOT of information you may want to share with your doctor; https://www.botoxmedical.com/Common/Assets/APC55BL15%20Injection%20Workbook%20FINAL%20elec.pdf
Let me know what you think!
Wishing you a low pain day,
Nancy
