Botulinum Toxin A is a type of toxin that is injected in small quantities into spastic (stiff) muscles to help them relax, thereby allowing movements to become more controlled. Botulinum toxin also increases the stretch of the muscle to encourage longitudinal growth.

It is most commonly used to treat spasticity in calf, hamstring and groin muscles and makes it easier for a child to perform movements such as putting their heels on the floor when walking and placing their legs apart.

Botulinum toxin is injected under a light anaesthetic and usually begins to work 2-3 days after the injection. The effects will last for 3-5 months.

Side effects of the treatment include: initial abnormal walking and falls, temporary soreness at the injection site, temporary changes in bowel and bladder control and a feeling of weakness, malaise (feeling unwell) and a mild fever for several days.