Bell’s Palsy is a neurological disorder that affects about 40,000 people per year in the U.S., and its main symptom is paralysis of the face. Sufferers often find that paralysis only affects one side of the face, and scientists believe that the disorder is caused by damage to the facial nervous system.
Within Traditional Chinese Medicine, Bell’s Palsy is described as “External Wind-Cold attacking the channels of the face” when translated into English, and it has been used for thousands of years to help sufferers in their recovery. Indeed, clinical researchers carried out a study in 2014 that has shown that acupuncture may be able to negate some of the facial paralysis associated with Bell’s Palsy.
A series of acupuncture treatments may help manage this condition and reduce its symptoms. However, like any other treatment, the effectiveness of acupuncture may vary from person to person. It is recommended that you consult your doctor about how acupuncture may be able to help you or if it is a treatment you can safely undergo.
Bell’s palsy signs and symptoms
The main symptom is weakness or paralysis of one side of the face. It usually is at its worst within 2 to 3 days of starting. It can also cause:
- Drooping eyelid or difficulty closing one eye
- Difficulty smiling and making facial expressions
- Drooping of one side of the mouth
- Difficulty eating and drinking
- Drooling
- Pain or sensitivity around the affected area
- Headache
- Loss of taste
- Changes in the amount of tears or saliva
Here is a research regarding acupuncture and Bell’s palsy:
