I've never heard of Botox being used to release lips musculature for that
reason.  Usually, from my end, it is used to release a muscle group, then
the therapist will often utilize progressive splinting to increase how far a
joint will move along with strengthening the apposing (sp?) muscle group.
For example, if someone had a contracture or decreased use of the elbow,
botox would be used in the biceps (arm bending)and the triceps (arm
straightening) would be strengthened.
Which muscles are affected on your friend would depend on treatment.

Beth t the OT

-----Original Message-----
From: St. John's University Cerebral Palsy List
[mailto:[log in to unmask]]On Behalf Of Anthony Arnold
Sent: Wednesday, August 27, 2003 4:20 PM
To: [log in to unmask]
Subject:


Friends,

I recently met a woman, who I feel could use some Botox injections to
relax her, and I feel it would benefit her greatly.  I do have a
question before I accidentally promise her something we can't do.  She
is able to suck through a straw if somebody holds her lips together,
which I'm sure is embarrassing for her but it's needed.  I know medicine
sometimes acts in different ways for different people and there's no
similar results, which is understandable.  However, could Botox help her
drink through a straw more independently?

Thanks,
Anthony

Visit me at http://www.anthonyarnold.net/