Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s palsy is when the facial muscles on one side suddenly weakens due to altered function of the Facial nerve – the seventh cranial nerve. This weakness results in one side of your face to droop and affects your smile, frown, and closure of your eye on that side. Some patients suffer from drooling, and changes in the quantity of tears and saliva they produce. (Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bells-palsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20370028)

The Mayo clinic state that the exact cause of Bell’s palsy occurs is not clear, but viruses have been linked to Bell’s palsy. The following viruses have been linked to Bell’s Palsy:

  • Cold sores and genital herpes (herpes simplex)
  • Chickenpox and shingles (herpes zoster)
  • Infectious mononucleosis (Epstein-Barr)
  • Cytomegalovirus infections
  • Respiratory illnesses (adenovirus)
  • German measles (rubella)
  • Mumps (mumps virus)
  • Flu (influenza B)
  • Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (coxsackievirus)

(Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/bells-palsy/symptoms-causes/syc-20370028)
One needs to consult their doctor to rule out a stroke before presenting for treatment.
 
How can we help you?

  • Examination of the orofacial region and neck
  •  Demonstrating specific facial and jaw exercises
  • Dry Needling with acupuncture needles
  • Application of specific nerve muscle stimulator and recommendation how to use the stimulator at home.