Neurological patients perceptions of the effect of Botulinum Toxin
Research type
Research Study
Full title
The use of Botulinum Toxin in neurological conditions: Patient perceptions of the effect and impact.
IRAS ID
159271
Contact name
Kitty Suddick
Contact email
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
The aim of this research study is to explore the patients' perceptions of the effect and impacts on the use of Botulinum Toxin.
Botulinum Toxin (BTX) is a muscle relaxing medication used to reduce spasticity which is frequently seen following neurological disease or injury. Spasticity refers to a wide range of involuntary muscle contractions that result in muscle spasms or stiffness. It can interfere with movement particularly in the legs and arms which impacts on normal movement and can contribute to secondary complications.
Current research into Botulinum Toxin for spasticity has focused on its ability to improve function. This evidence has been drawn from studies using quantitative research designs. These studies have demonstrated limited significance in the relationship between BTX and improvements in functional ability.
A number of factors such as flexibility of muscles, joints, and soft tissue make measuring spasticity complex. Within the research literature, there is a growing consensus that the measurement tools used within these studies may not be sensitive enough to capture the benefit in functional change that patients find useful in everyday experiences.Research on the effects of BTX has not sought the patients perspective. Therefore exploration of these perspectives through in-depth interview is warranted to gain insights to inform future research and capture impacts which have not been considered.
Eight participants with neurological conditions and who have received BTX injections within the last 12 months will be recruited using an opt-in approach and purposive sampling. Potential participants will be identified by Consultant Neurologists and Specialist Neurological Physiotherapists at East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust (ESHT). Clinicians will provide information packs to patients who fit the inclusion criteria. Posters will be displayed in the clinical area waiting rooms at East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust.
The study will last for approximately 18 months.
REC name
HSC REC B
REC reference
15/NI/0155
Date of REC Opinion
15 Sep 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion