Upper-limb movement training in children following injection of botulinum toxin A

Abstract

Botulinum Neurotoxin A (BoNT-A) is a useful medication for the reduction of spasticity and dystonia in the upper limb of children with cerebral palsy (CP). The method of toxin delivery, dose, and muscle selection criteria are established. Children who are being treated require appropriate assessment at the impairment and activity levels of functioning. Once injected, children require specific therapy delivered by an occupational therapist (OT) according to the specified goals of the intervention set out, prior to injection, by the child, family, and health care workers. Botulinum neurotoxin injection offers the child with cerebral palsy a window of opportunity in which to develop further skills in upper limb functioning. Further research using rigorous scientific design evaluating specific therapy regimes and other interventions is required to enable more specific protocols to be established. After injection and intensive therapy, the client was really happy to be able to catch and throw a ball with his school friends. © Springer Science + Business Media, LLC 2009.