Acupuncture treatment in facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy)

Abstract

Facial paralysis is a medical condition that occurs when there is weakness or loss of movement in the facial muscles. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine technique that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate healing and alleviate pain. Acupuncture as a part of traditional Chinese medicine can help improve the symptoms of facial paralysis by promoting blood flow and nerve function in the affected area. In this article is presented a case of 33 year old man with right- side peripheral facial paralysis. The patient started the acupuncture treatment within 24 hours on the onset of the paralysis. The treatments were performed in a period of one and a half month. After 12 acupuncture treatments, the patient had an improved Brackmann’s score (was able to lift the eyebrow and move the mouth outward). The selected acupuncture points are: GB16 Mu Chang, DU20 Baihui, GB14 Yang Bai, HN5 Taiyang, SI18 Quan Liao, ST6 Jiache, LI20 Ying Xiang, RN24 Cheng Jiang, LI4 Hegu, GB36 Waiqiu and SP6 Sanyinjiao. After 12 acupuncture treatments, the patient experienced significant improvement in facial muscle function from no movement to mild weakness. The patient also reported a significant reduction in pain and discomfort. Early acupuncture treatment has a great benefit for patients with peripheral facial paralysis.

Keywords: paralysis, acupuncture, traditional Chinese medicine, Bell’s palsy