Joint, bone, spine : revue du rhumatisme
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Previously known only as a deadly bacterial poison responsible for severe paralysis, botulinum toxin is now a well-recognized therapeutic agent used to relieve involuntary movements, dystonia-related functional impairments, spasticity, and autonomic disorders such as hyperhidrosis. Musculoskeletal pain in patients with rheumatic disorders is among the emerging indications for botulinum toxin therapy. ⋯ At present, the effects of botulinum toxin and its use for pain relief remain controversial. Carefully designed prospective trials are needed to investigate the efficacy and safety of botulinum toxin in pain disorders.