How do Botox injections help treat cervical dystonia?

Botox may help treat cervical dystonia by relaxing the muscles in the neck, according to WebMD. Botox is a purified form of botulinum toxin type A, a treatment for uncontrolled muscle contractions.

During cervical dystonia treatment, the health care professional injects the botox into the affected muscle, explains WebMD. The botox then blocks the effects of the chemical acetylcholine, which is responsible for producing muscle contractions. The cervical dystonia patient must repeat the procedure every three months. Dystonia is a movement disorder that causes involuntary twisting of the affected body part. Cervical dystonia is the most common form of the condition.