Swelling and severe pain in my arm after Botox injections.

Question

I get botox for severe spasms in my trapezius muscles. I had injections the other day. During the procedure, my doctor injected the front of my neck and. I jumped because of a sharp pain that traveled down my left arm. Since then I have been having severe pain in my arm and that same injection spot is still painful. I told my neuro and he did nothing about it. I am scared and don't know what to do. Also, my armpit area is swollen. What should I do? Is this normal? Will it go away on its own?

Lillian Overman, MD · Answer

Hello,
What you describe doesn't sound normal, but it's hard to get a clear picture without more details. Firstly, the trapezius muscle isn't in the front. The nerves that travel from the neck down to the arms aren't in the front either. Botox shouldn't be causing swelling in your armpit. I'm concerned that there is more happening than trapezius muscle spasm; such as compression of the nerves that travel down your arm as well as the vein and lymphatic vessels that drain the arm. Consider a second opinion with another neurologist and an appointment with your primary care physician.
Please let us know how you are doing.
Best regards,
Lillian Overman, MD

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and I am sorry to hear of your symptoms.  Unfortunately without knowing the exact placement of injections it is difficult to offer definite advice as some discomfort from migraine Botox injections is common.  I know it is difficult to do but allow yourself more time for the injection sites to heal and you should see your symptoms improve steadily.  Maintain close follow up with your neurologist so that they can refer you appropriately if you see no resolution.  Best wishes.

Kristine Brecht, MD (license suspended) · Answer

This is a unusual and strange reaction.
With Botox, that amount of swelling and pain shouldn’t happen.
Why were you getting an injection in your trapezius?
A nerve conduction study if your arm and a MRI of your cervical spine may help find some underlying/ baseline problems.
Kristine Brecht MD
Seattle, Wa

Ramtin Massoudi, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi Dear
There are couple of factors I like to mention, if you are above age 50, and have family history of heart problem or you have heart problem also I would recommend your doctor to just to make sure your heart is ok. Sometimes heart pain radiates to left arm. As far as botox caused this pain is very possible but that would subsides soon.
Thank you
Ramtin Massoudi, MD

Swelling and severe pain in my arm after Botox injections.

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Answer: Left arm pain post Botox

Answer: Left arm pain post Botox

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Swelling and severe pain in my arm after Botox injections.

Answers (4)

Answer: Left arm pain post Botox

Answer: Left arm pain post Botox

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Everything you need to know about Botox

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