What is Bell’s Palsy
- November 14, 2019
Bell’s palsy is a form of temporary facial weakness. It results from damage or trauma to the 7th facial nerve. It presents as drooping of the eyelid and corner of the mouth, drooling, dryness of the eye or mouth, impairment of taste, and excessive tearing in one eye. Most often these symptoms usually begin suddenly and reach their peak within 48 hours and lead to significant facial distortion.
These symptoms can be confused with stroke, but it is quite different. Here are some ways to differentiate:
The causes of Bell’s palsy are trauma or a viral infection of the 7th cranial nerve like Herpes Simplex or even Influenza. Treatment includes a dose of prednisone to reduce the inflammation. The lesser known fact is that Bell’s palsy can be treated by Physical Therapy.
Physical Therapists at Allied Health Solutions routinely treat Bell’s palsy. We use techniques like soft tissue manipulation, modalities like Electrical Stimulation and Ultrasound.
We provide our patients with a unique home exercise program and safety precautions to manage their condition. Kinesio taping has also been proven to provide with faster recovery.
Bell’s Palsy can come on suddenly, but most people with Bell’s palsy recover full facial strength and expression.
Reference: https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Bells-Palsy-Fact-Sheet