The Injury Hub: Bells Palsy
Our Chartered Physiotherapists across Ireland are experts in the causes, symptoms and treatment of Bells Palsy. Book an appointment today.
Bell’s Palsy is, in most cases, a temporary disorder that affects the nerves and muscles on one side of the face. It occurs when the nerve that controls the facial muscles is swollen, inflamed or compressed. This disorder, which is not related to stroke, is the most common cause of facial paralysis. However, while there may be no link between Bell’s Palsy and stroke, any sudden weakness that occurs on one side of the face should be checked by a doctor immediately.
Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy can differ from person to person and range from mild to severe. Facial paralysis is the main symptom but due to the complex function of the facial nerve others may be present.
Facial weakness can affect the ability to eat and drink, and the formation of normal facial expressions may be difficult. If the face is mostly or fully paralysed, there may be difficulty closing one eye, which can leave the eye vulnerable and exposed particularly during sleep. Some sufferers may also experience episodes of drooling from the side of the mouth.
Bell’s Palsy may also be accompanied by a sensitivity to sound on the affected side. Some people experience headache and in particular may experience pain in the head just behind the ear. This is often the first symptom of an incipient Bell’s Palsy.
Physiotherapy can be helpful to stimulate the facial nerve, help maintain muscle tone, strengthen the facial muscles to avoid wastage and in resensitisation of the affected nerves. Facial massage and exercises may help with this. Acupuncture is another method used by our Physiotherapists to treat symptoms such as muscle weakness.
Acupuncture is a safe, drug free, painless intervention in which very fine needles are inserted at particular acupuncture points on the body to relieve the symptoms of various physical and psychological conditions, particularly for both acute injuries and chronic conditions resilient to other treatments.
We have Physiotherapists who specialise in the diagnosis and treatment of Bell’s Palsy. They will provide expert treatment to strengthen facial muscles and resolve muscular balance. Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy can vary from person to person, ranging in severity from mild weakness to total paralysis. Our Chartered Physiotherapists will provide evidence based treatments tailored to your individual needs.
All of our Chartered Physiotherapists are fully qualified and insured, with vast clinical experience in the treatment of Bell’s Palsy, so you can be sure you’re in safe hands.
