Ziad Elchami
International Medical Center,Saudi Arabia
Title: The efficacy of managing allodynia with combination treatment of botox injection and cymbalta
Biography
Biography: Ziad Elchami
Abstract
Introduction: Allodynia is believed to be a hypersensitive reaction that may result from central sensitization that could be associated with entities such as fibromyalgia, traumas, neuropathic conditions and others. The pain signals originate with specialized nerves, called nociceptors, that sense information about things like temperature and painful stimuli right from the skin.
Objective: The objective is to manage allodynic pain and to attain better functionality and lifestyle for the patients.
Aim: The aim is to establish the efficacy of managing allodynia with combination treatment of Botox Injection and Cymbalta.
Methods: 20 patients with chronic allodynia pain affecting either upper or lower extremity were evaluated in Pain & Headache Center, KSA. Diagnosed clinically and by imaging as chronic pain, all received localized injection of 100 units, applied to the affected region, each trigger point was injected with 5-10 units, followed by starting patients on Cymbalta taper up to 60mg daily and sustain patients for 6 months.
Inclusive criteria: 12 males, 8 females, ages ranging from 40-70; mean age = 55. Exclusive criteria: Pregnant women, children, anyone who is allergic to any of the medication ingredients, and patients who have liver and kidney disease and contraindicated for Botox injection or Cymbalta.
Results: Average improvement of 85% was appreciated, as per numeric pain scale, within 4-6 weeks and sustained for at least 12 months, with no evidence of major side