Der Nervenarzt
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For 20 years botulinum toxin A has been used for the treatment of a variety of disorders characterised by pathologically increased muscle contraction. Recently, treatment of tension headache, migraine, cluster headache, and myofascial pain syndromes of neck, shoulder girdle, and back with botulinum toxin A has become a rapidly expanding new field of research. Several modes of action are discussed for these indications. ⋯ The efficacy of botulinum toxin A in the treatment of pain disorders is being investigated in several studies at the moment. The results and experiences obtained so far present new alternatives in the treatment of chronic pain disorders. The practical use of botulinum toxin A is demonstrated.