Facial Paralysis

Facial paralysis (Facial Palsy) refers to weakness of facial muscles from damage to the facial nerve on either one or both sides of your face. Damage to the facial nerve can be caused by viral infection (Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, middle ear infection), surgical intervention (removal of acoustic neuroma or facial nerve tumour), idiopathic (Bell’s Palsy), stroke and/or trauma. Depending on the cause, it can result in a temporary or permanent loss of function. The facial nerve travels from near the base of the ear and branches into five different nerve pathways, which is why loss of movement can be partial or complete.

The main functions of facial muscles are:

• Raising eyebrows
• Closing eyes
• Smiling (open and closed mouth)
• Pouting
• Lifting upper lip and pulling lower lip down
• Frowning
• Wrinkling nose and flaring nostrils

In addition to loss of movement outlined above other symptoms include:

• Facial muscle spasms
• Drooping eyelid
• Dry eye
• Sound sensitivity
• Slurred speech
• Difficulty eating
• Dry mouth

To determine the best conservative management for Facial Paralysis an initial assessment should be performed. Components of the examination will include a review of the individual’s history, symptoms and medical management, evaluation of facial movements and coordination as well as hands on palpation of the facial muscles.

Based on the assessment findings, a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs will be provided. Treatment can include a combination of manual therapy, facial exercises, and education on preventing your eye from drying out.