Facial Nerve Pain and Paralysis Care
Bell’s Palsy is a condition that may have a very rapid onset leading to varying levels of paralysis across half the face. Symptoms may affect both the functions and appearance of the face.
Eyes: The person may have trouble closing the eye of the afflicted side, that eye may tear uncontrollably and also be prone to dryness due to a lack of closure. There may be nerve pain in and around the surrounding areas like the eyebrows and temple.
Mouth: It is common for the corner of mouth to droop or tighten, unable or hold in fluids or make symmetrical facial expressions. There is an inability to pucker or smile and difficulty drinking.
Pain: the areas at the temple, jaw, behind and in front of the ears, cheek, nasolabial fold, the neck and shoulders- typically will be very painful. Some patients also experience severe headaches or lower back pain.
Conventional medicine has no clear explanation of this condition, but believes it is a reaction to infection. However, most patients will find their symptoms still remaining after multiple rounds of antibiotics. Facial muscle therapy alone does not address the inflammation nor the nerve function. The condition exists in stages and prolonged states without proper care may result in a fixed paralysis.
Acupuncture and herbal medicine has proven highly effective results for Bell’s Palsy. There is a dual approach in addressing internal medicine to regulate circulation, reduce inflammatory states, and individualized diagnostics on what the causative factor is. Acupuncture releases muscle tension and nerve restriction. It reduces pain and in cases of atrophy, nerve function is stimulated and strengthened. Inflammation and pain are resolved and nerve function is restored.
Our clinic has had incredible clinical outcomes resulting in the full recovery in many patients.
The length of treatment varies per patient. In most cases, facial symmetry and function can be restored. It is recommended that care is given as soon as the initial onset. Delay in care may require a longer length of time to treat.
Kim Truong, L.Ac. of A New Day Acupuncture and Herbal Clinic offers great efficacy in treating acute or chronic facial palsy. She will draw up a clear Care Plan that optimizes the results you can anticipate. She will also prescribe custom herbal formulas to address the cause of illness.
Both internally and externally you will find holistic improvements on your way to healing and good health.