What is Bell’s palsy ?

Bell’s palsy is an unexplained episode of facial muscle weakness or paralysis. This condition

results from damage to the facial nerve (the 7th cranial nerve).Pain and discomfort usually

occur on one side of the face or head.

Symptoms

1 .Loss of the facial expression.

2. Drooping of the face – lower eyelid, eyebrow and corner of the mouth sag.

3. Closing the eye is difficult.

4. Eating is difficult because food collects in the side of the cheek and fluids seep out of the

corner of the mouth.

5.Speaking, whistling and drinking are impaired.

Physiotherapy Treatment

1. Ultrasound over the nerve trunk may reduce the inflammation.

2. Motor point stimulation for facial muscles.

3. Massage

Exercises

1. Look surprised then frown.

2. Squeeze eyes closed then open wide.

3. Smile, grin, say ‘o’ .

4. Say ‘a, e, i, o, u’.

5. Hold straw in mouth-suck and blow.

6. Whistle.