Facial Palsy (Bell's Palsy) — Early Treatment Matters
Table of Contents
If your face suddenly droops on one side
You wake up, brush your teeth, and water leaks from the corner of your mouth. In the mirror, one side of your face does not move and the eye on that side will not close completely. Facial palsy (Bell's palsy) is paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face caused by inflammation of the facial nerve, and it almost always begins suddenly. It affects about 20–30 people per 100,000 each year and can occur at any age.
The first 72 hours are the golden window
For Bell's palsy, beginning active treatment within 72 hours of onset is decisive for prognosis. With early treatment, about 85% of patients recover completely, but delayed treatment can leave sequelae such as synkinesis or crocodile tears.
Strengths of Korean medicine
In Korean medicine, facial palsy is understood as wind-cold (風寒) invading the meridians of the face. Treatment focuses on restoring meridian flow and supporting nerve regeneration.
- Acupuncture: The core of facial palsy treatment. Precise stimulation of facial points such as Dicang (ST4), Jiache (ST6), Xiaguan (ST7), Yangbai (GB14), and Sizhukong (TE23) helps the paralyzed muscles recover.
- Electroacupuncture: A mild electric current is delivered through the needles to stimulate nerve and muscle.
- Herbal medicine: Formulas such as Gyeonjeong-san and Ugwieum expel wind pathogens and promote qi-and-blood circulation.
- Pharmacopuncture: Injecting herbal extracts into acupoints enhances anti-inflammatory and nerve-regenerating effects.
Treatment duration and precautions
Mild paralysis usually requires 2–4 weeks of treatment, while moderate or severe cases may need 1–3 months. During this period it is important to avoid cold drafts, perform gentle facial exercises consistently, and get enough rest. If the eye does not close completely, frequent use of artificial tears is essential to protect the cornea. As soon as symptoms appear, please begin treatment as quickly as possible.