Bell’s palsy (Facial paralysis ) is clinically one of a common neurological disease affecting the facial nerves, resulting in weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. Acupuncture has a long history of treating facial paralysis. This kind of treatment is simple, effective, and has no side effects.
What is bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s palsy is a facial condition in which facial nerve inflammation causes paralysis of the facial muscles on one or both sides of the face. The Paralysis can deform the face and interfere with normal functions, such as closing the eyes, eating and drinking.
Facial nerve that controls the facial muscles (VII cranial nerve) becomes inflamed in its bony canal, affecting the transmission of nerve impulses. Facial weakness can occur in other conditions, such as stroke, brain tumor, or head trauma.
What causes of bell’s palsy ?
In the perspective of traditional Chinese medicine(TCM), this condition is also called “deviation of the mouth and eyes”. It can occur in patients of any ages and through any season. This is more likely to happen if you have an underlying Qi (vital energy) deficiency.
According to TCM, it is caused due to a “Wind” factor. This “Wind” attacks the meridian channels of the face which are in charge of transporting Qi and blood to nourish the muscles in the face. The “Wind” factor can be further catagorised into 2 specific types – Wind-cold and Wind-heat.
Following an invasion of Wind-cold from cold weather or prolonged exposure to aircon, this can lead to constriction of facial vessels, causing stagnation of blood and lymph circulation, resulting in edema of the face. Whereas Wind-heat invasion often results in fever or sore throat and may be accompanied with ear distention and pain.
TCM acupuncture help in treating bell’s palsy
Acupuncture therapy is the first line treatment in TCM, which is widely used for the treatment of bell’s palsy throughout the world. Acupuncture is a cost-effective treatment for treating bell’s palsy, aiming to restore the movement to facial muscles by invigorating Qi and promoting blood circulation to the face.
Bell’s palsy involves inflammation of 7th cranial nerve affecting regions of the stylomastoid foramen or the facial canal. This corresponds to the ancient TCM as Yang Ming and Shao Yang channel obstruction.
The treatment duration of acupuncture is about 45 minutes. Initial stage 3 times a day, then twice per week, when facial paralysis gradually returns to normal, can cut down to once a month. Consistent acupuncture treatment is recommended to expedite the paralysis and enhance nerve function recovery, which result is good and permanent.
Acupuncture near me for bell’s palsy
When it comes to TCM acupuncture treatment, the essential element is to establish facial symmetry. While Bell’s palsy is a relatively mild form of neuropathy. Losing muscular control of the facial muscles affects your day to day life and interactions with other people. Therefore, it is crucial to treat early so that our TCM physicians can diagnose accordingly to improve blood circulation, control nerve inflammation and reduce edema of the face.
At Shanghai Medical Clinic, our team of acupuncturists have extensive experience with Bell’s Palsy and treat every patient as an individual. Rather than just looking at your physical symptoms, we consider all aspects of your life to view your health in the context of you as a whole person.
Acupuncture should always be done by a qualified professional. Our team of acupuncturists all hold license as TCAM healthcare professionals and registered in Dubai Health Authority. Click here to learn about our clinics located in dubai and to schedule a consultation. #TCM #acupuncture #acupuncturedubai #herbalmedicine
