Chase had Botox today!

After months of agonizing over whether or night Botox was the right decision for Chase's torticollis, we finally made the decision to do it. Because the physical therapy wasn't working on the tilt (though it did help correct the rotation problem some), we felt the next logical step was Botox injections. The only alternative was surgery to lengthen the muscle at 3-4 years of age.

We were at the hospital bright and early this morning. A numbing cream was put on the injection site and had to sit for 40 minutes or so. While we were waiting, Chase had fun playing with all the other babies who were there waiting their turns for Botox. (The Botox clinic is held once each month.) After waiting around awhile, the doctor came in to do the injection. I think the worst part of it for Chase was being held down on the table with his neck stretched out on his painful side. I don't think he was able to feel the 4 injections he received. After it was over, he immediately came to me for some hugs and kisses. And, a few tears later, we were out the door.

According to the doctor, it takes approximately 3-4 days before we will begin to see the effects. And, he said not to be surprised if he suddenly tips his head to the right rather than the left we're used to seeing. Once the muscle loosens up (he likened it to having a constant charley horse), the right side muscles of his neck will suddenly have to learn to hold the weight of his head.

We are going to begin weekly physical therapy again, with lots and lots of stretches and exercises at home in between appointments. The Botox will wear off in about 3 months, so let's hope that we can get those right side muscles strengthened up in that time!