Bell’s palsy is defined as a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on once side of the face caused by inflammation or damage to the seventh cranial nerve. And while most people make a full recovery, others need some extra help.
This malady affects about 40,000 people in the United States annually and most commonly is seen in people ranging from 15 to 60 years of age. The exact cause is not known, but it is suspected that it can be frequently attributed to viral infections. This condition arises from facial nerve damage, which controls facial muscle movement. Loss of function in this nerve results in muscle drooping. The same nerve damage can disrupt taste, saliva production and even tear formation.
The symptoms of Bell’s palsy include facial twitching, weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, a drooping eyelid or corner of the mouth, excessive drooling, dryness of the eyes or mouth, impaired sense of taste, excessive tearing of the eye, jaw pain, tinnitus, headaches, dizziness, impaired speech and trouble eating or drinking.
Western medicine has several treatment options for Bell’s palsy, including antiviral medication, corticosteroids and physical therapy. However, the effectiveness of these treatments varies and there is still no definitive cure for Bell’s palsy.
This is where East Asian Medicine can be extremely beneficial. East Asian Medicine (EAM) refers to Bell’s palsy as “Zhong Feng,” meaning “Wind Attack.” It is categorized as an “External Wind Stroke” brought on by wind invading empty or weakened channels in the body.
According to EAM, wind penetrates the body and disrupts the sinews and vessels in the facial area, resulting in stagnation of qi (energy) and blood. This stagnation makes it difficult for the face’s channels to properly nourish the affected areas, leading to issues with muscle function.
The treatment philosophy in EAM centers on dispelling wind and promoting the smooth flow of qi and blood, while clearing any blocked channels. Acupuncture is often used to promote blood circulation, invigorate qi and enhance recovery by resolving underlying conditions that hinder circulation, thus facilitating nerve function and overall improvement.
Vacuity or insufficiency in qi, is another underlying consideration in EAM. Factors such as poor diet, overworking, stress and excessive indulgence can deplete qi, leaving the body vulnerable to conditions like Bell’s palsy.
EAM associates Bell’s palsy with a wind cold invasion that obstructs the meridians that run to the head, neck and face, which are rich in qi and blood. When these channels become debilitated, they are more susceptible to damage.
The initial goal of treatment in East Asian Medicine is to eliminate wind and resolve dampness while stimulating the qi and enhancing blood flow to the face. Regular acupuncture sessions, typically one to two per week, help alleviate paralysis, rejuvenate nerve function and prevent residual muscle dysfunction. Acupuncture can improve circulation to the facial muscles and aid in the recovery process.
Specific acupuncture points are used not just on the face but across the body to ensure qi flows freely through the meridians, speeding recovery. Additionally, Chinese herbal formulas may be prescribed to support internal healing and enhance the nervous system’s performance. Common herbs like sage, cinnamon twigs and wild angelica work to eliminate wind and cold.
The best time window for acupuncture treatments to achieve maximum effectiveness is within the first three to six months of the onset of symptoms. Early treatment can help to reduce inflammation and promote nerve regeneration, leading to better outcomes and faster recovery. If you or someone you know is experiencing Bell’s palsy, East Asian Medicine can be an effective and safe treatment option.