Facial palsy

Weakness in one side of the face happens when the facial nerve is damaged, either due to infection (Bell’s Palsy, Ramsay Hunt Syndrome), compression (following brain surgery) or trauma (accidents etc). The face can be completely paralysed with the person unable to hold the face level, close the eye, smile, eat normally or talk clearly. In the early stage of facial palsy there may be pain in the face, however, this usually settles quickly. Facial physiotherapy at The Nerve Injury Clinic involves a full assessment of the posture of the face, facial movements and soft tissue length. Treatment includes facial exercises, stretches, posture re education, facilitation of movement and advice regarding eye care, eating/drinking, speech etc. Taping the face and electrical muscle stimulation are also sometimes used. If a facial palsy lasts a few months or longer, synkinesis can occur, where the face feels tight and unwanted movements occur. Physiotherapy for synkinesis is very effective in managing the symptoms and improving the feel of the face and movement control.