Acupuncture for Bell’s Palsy
Can acupuncture help with Bell’s Palsy? Yes, and there are more therapies than just acupuncture that are helpful!
Current research indicates that conventional treatments for Bell’s Palsy most effectively involve corticosteroids, which are powerful medications with anti-inflammatory properties. There is a substantial amount of data supporting their efficacy. While antiviral medications are also frequently used, there is less evidence regarding their effectiveness compared to corticosteroids. In addition to these options, facial exercises and hyperbaric oxygen therapy have shown promising benefits.
So, where does acupuncture fit in with these treatment options? Electroacupuncture has a strong anti-inflammatory mechanism of action, so it is reasonable that it could benefit Bell’s Palsy by reducing inflammation and stimulating pain-reducing substances in the nerves. Although there is emerging evidence from randomized controlled trials that acupuncture and electroacupuncture are practical, there is still not enough data at the meta-analysis level to fully understand their role in treating Bell’s Palsy. This is similar to the hyperbaric chamber, facial exercises, and antiviral medications, requiring more research to understand their benefits entirely.
Since 1995, Vitamin B12 has been shown to benefit Bell’s Palsy. Combining B12 injections with acupuncture increases treatment efficacy compared to acupuncture alone.
Despite the emerging nature of acupuncture research on treating Bell’s Palsy, there is clear evidence that it can be helpful – it might not work for everyone. It is reasonable to believe that electroacupuncture can be effective for Bell’s Palsy since its mechanism is similar to that of the gold standard of treatment (anti-inflammatory steroids). However, as with all neurological conditions, various factors can affect treatment success, with the most limiting factor being waiting too long to seek treatment. It is best to start treatment as early as possible to achieve the best possible outcome for recovery.
What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s Palsy is a paralysis condition that affects the facial nerves, leading to weakness of one side of the face. In sporadic cases, both sides of the face can be affected. The exact cause of Bell’s Palsy is still unknown, but it is thought to be triggered by viral infections such as cold sores, chickenpox, mononucleosis, flu, etc. Certain factors such as pregnancy, environmental toxins, or diabetes can also increase the risk of developing the condition. Suppose you suspect that you may have Bell’s Palsy. In that case, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately, as facial paralysis can also be a sign of a stroke (a life-threatening medical emergency). The medical staff at a hospital are well equipped to differentiate between a stroke and Bell’s Palsy to diagnose correctly.
How long does Bell’s Palsy facial paralysis last?
Bell’s Palsy is a condition where individuals experience facial weakness or paralysis. The good news is that most people regain 85% of their facial movement within three weeks. However, complete recovery may take three to five months. In some instances, certain symptoms can become permanent. Treatments for Bell’s Palsy are crucial to help restore normal movement as quickly as possible, prevent progression to permanent facial paralysis, reduce the development of motor synkinesis (inappropriate facial contractions), and avoid eye injury.
How many acupuncture treatments are needed for Bell’s Palsy?
When working with a patient who has Bell’s Palsy, it is recommended that treatments be done daily, if possible, in the clinic. As we begin to observe improvement, we can adjust the frequency of appointments to continue stimulating the restoration of regular facial muscle activity. Generally, a course of treatment involves around twelve visits, but the number can vary depending on the patient’s age, how recently the paralysis occurred, and the cause of the condition.
About the Author
Dr. Mark-Ian VanOtterloo is a licensed acupuncturist and Doctor of Acupuncture based in Wheat Ridge, Colorado. He is an integrative, functional medicine practitioner who specializes in chronic disease and women’s health. To find out more about how acupuncture can assist with your Bell’s Palsy, schedule an appointment online.
“All around excellent physician. He is so knowledgeable in so many areas of health and he has such a great caring bedside manner.”
