Ultrasound image guided injection of botulinum toxin for the management of spasticity: an implementation case study for practice recommendations and a governance framework
In this case illustration, application of the PoCUS framework resulted in accurate toxin placement and a positive treatment outcome with reduced spasticity. Splint application to maintain range of movement was easier and personal care in cleaning and washing the palm of the hand aligned to treatment goals improved. The use of ultrasound imaging in guided injection using the PoCUS framework provides a potential increase in treatment accuracy, effectiveness, and safety, which is both reassuring to the clinician and positive for people requiring treatment, particularly those with greater risk factors such as anticoagulation. The development of practice-based skills and competency in areas such as image optimisation, interpretation, and needle visualisation are integral to developing practice in this approach to spasticity management and substantial progress can be made with structured and focused learning for rehabilitation.
Authors
- Julio Alfonso
- Aideen Steed
- Gary Morris
- Stephen A. Ashford (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5541-7063)
- Michael J. Smith (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0220-5125)
Institutions
- King's College - North Carolina (US)
- London North West Healthcare NHS Trust (GB)
- Hywel Dda University Health Board (GB)
- Cardiff University (GB)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Disability and Rehabilitation
- Published
- 2026-03-16
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/09638288.2026.2643099
- Primary Topic
- Botulinum Toxin and Related Neurological Disorders
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00