Botox. It’s not just for faces anymore.

While most of us associate Botox with Hollywood and pulled-taut faces, a few doctors are using the drug, known as botulinum toxin, to help stroke victims regain use of their arms. Francine V. Corso tells the New York Times that she can now use her once crippled arm as she could before her paralyzing stroke: "I’m completely transformed — I drive, I volunteer, I take art classes."

Unfortunately, Corso’s one of the few people who are benefiting from botox injections. Though Medicare approves of using botox in such a manner, the FDA does not, and many doctors aren’t even aware of the drug’s myriad uses. Nor are they trained for the intricate process of injecting it into people’s limbs.

Though it can be administered more generally into an arm or leg, well-trained doctors know to use electric stimulators or ultrasound to find just the right muscle. Remarked Dr. Mark Hallett,  “A number of authorities feel that if they get close, that’s good enough. I don’t agree. I think it’s valuable to make sure you’re in the right place.”

Click here for our slide show "Botox Breast Lifts and Six Other Peculiar New Uses for Botox"