Using targeted botulinum toxin injections to relieve chronic pelvic floor pain
Official title: High-Density Surface Electromyography Guided Precision Botulinum Neurotoxin Injections to Manage Chronic Pelvic Floor Pain
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11102726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with chronic pelvic floor pain, like those with interstitial cystitis, by using special technology to guide precise botox injections that target the painful muscles, aiming to provide better relief and fewer side effects.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | June 4, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $341,988 |
| NIH project number | 7R01DK133800-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11102726 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women diagnosed with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome who experience chronic pelvic floor pain and muscle hypertonicity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have chronic pelvic floor pain or those with other unrelated pelvic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of high-density surface electromyography to guide precise injections of botulinum neurotoxin in patients suffering from chronic pelvic floor pain, particularly those with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome. The study aims to improve treatment outcomes by accurately targeting the areas of muscle hypertonicity that contribute to pain. By mapping the innervation zones of pelvic floor muscles, the researchers hope to enhance the effectiveness of botulinum toxin injections while minimizing potential side effects. Patients will be monitored for pain relief and muscle relaxation following the injections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a more effective and targeted treatment option for women suffering from chronic pelvic floor pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with botulinum toxin injections for pelvic pain, indicating that this approach has potential based on existing evidence.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Yingchun — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Yingchun
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.