Debrecen4U June 5, 2026

State-of-Art Ultrasound Technology Supports Stroke Rehabilitation in Debrecen

The University of Debrecen’s Clinic of Medical Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine has expanded its capabilities with a new top-of-the-range ultrasound system to guide the treatment of abnormal muscle stiffness resulting from stroke, brain injury, or spinal cord injury using botulinum toxin injections (commonly known as Botox).

At the Clinic of Medical Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine of the University of Debrecen’s Clinical Centre, spasticity—abnormally increased muscle tension—is treated with botulinum toxin. In the Spasticity Centre, Botox, which is also widely used in aesthetic medicine, is employed to reduce excessive muscle tension and increased muscle tone. During this advanced treatment, botulinum toxin is injected directly into the muscles responsible for the abnormal muscle stiffness.

“Botulinum toxin has long been known in medicine and is widely used in aesthetic practice. In neurological rehabilitation, however, it serves a different purpose: it enables the targeted, localised treatment of abnormally increased muscle tone without weakening other muscle groups in the body. Botulinum toxin affects the functioning of the nerve–muscle connection by inhibiting the release of substances that trigger muscle contraction. As a result, abnormal muscle tone is reduced, which can improve mobility. Major clinical studies clearly demonstrate that this therapy is the most effective treatment method for patients affected by this condition,” Zoltán Jenei, Associate Professor and Director of the clinic, told hirek.unideb.hu.

The procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance, allowing the injection to be delivered precisely into the muscle responsible for the pathological condition. The recently acquired high-resolution, premium-grade ultrasound system significantly improves the precision of interventions and the effectiveness of treatment.

“The therapeutic effect of Botox generally lasts for three to four months, and we would like to extend this duration. International clinical trials are currently under way involving innovative formulations that may provide effectiveness for more than six months. The University of Debrecen is participating in these developments as one of the Hungarian centres involved in the research. The results so far are encouraging,” explained Zoltán Jenei.

Specialists emphasise that botulinum toxin treatment alone is not sufficient. Physiotherapy and functional electrical stimulation form integral parts of the rehabilitation programme. The aim in every case is to improve patients’ functional abilities, increase their independence, and restore their quality of life.

The clinic’s rehabilitation activities are also supported by a range of other advanced technological devices. Robotic systems can assist patients with complete or severe paralysis, while computer-controlled interactive equipment enables patients with limited active movement to practise movement patterns and improve their ability to carry out daily activities independently.

Among the most advanced technologies is an exoskeleton system, which supports or simulates walking through an external, wearable robotic framework. It is primarily used for patients with severe paralysis and brain or spinal cord injuries, allowing them to experience walking again.

Combined with a body-weight support system and a virtual visual environment, the technology provides complex stimulation to the nervous system that may help patients relearn lost functions.

However, Zoltán Jenei stressed that even the most advanced robotic devices cannot replace the work of physiotherapists and rehabilitation professionals. Their primary role is to enhance and complement the effectiveness of conventional rehabilitation methods.

Source and photo credit: dehir.hu