Bell’s Palsy and Acupuncture: What You Need to Know
Bell’s Palsy can be a very frightening experience. Its symptoms often mimic those of a stroke, so the first step is always to see a medical doctor immediately for a proper diagnosis.
“The sooner you begin acupuncture treatment, the faster it resolves — and the better your long-term result.”
Once you have your diagnosis, call your acupuncturist. Acupuncture can be a very helpful and rapid support in recovery. In the first week, frequent visits are usually necessary, then spaced out depending on progress.
What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s Palsy is a sudden, one-sided weakness or paralysis of the face. It often worsens over the following 48 hours. While temporary, recovery is usually slow — anywhere from 2 weeks to 6 months on average. The more severe the case, the longer recovery takes. Very rarely, it can be permanent.
Standard Medical Treatment
The usual treatment is a course of steroids, prescribed by a GP or hospital doctor. Research shows this is effective (1), but steroids must be taken within days of symptoms starting.
“Steroids and acupuncture can safely be used together — there are no negative interactions.”
Antivirals are not beneficial (2), even though viral infection may trigger Bell’s Palsy. Surgery, once used to relieve pressure on the facial nerve, is no longer recommended due to risks.
Where Acupuncture Fits
Many people seek acupuncture if:
Steroids haven’t worked well
They want to combine both approaches
They wish to avoid steroids due to side effects (a decision to make with their doctor)
They are already familiar with acupuncture and trust it from experience
Research shows acupuncture is effective for Bell’s Palsy, with some studies recommending electroacupuncture (3). This technique uses a very mild current between needles — it’s not painful — and is often combined with medication or physio.
“Distal acupuncture alone can be highly effective — no needles in the face are required.”
In practice, Distal Needling Acupuncture alone can be highly effective. The relief patients experience can be profound — sometimes joyful, sometimes deeply emotional.
Why Does Bell’s Palsy Happen?
The exact cause isn’t fully understood. It’s believed to be due to swelling and inflammation of the facial nerve.
Common signs include: change in taste, difficulty speaking, dizziness, drooling, eye or mouth dryness, excessive watering in one eye, headache or pain behind the ear, hypersensitivity to sound, ringing in the ears, and trouble eating or drinking.
Bell’s Palsy is often preceded by a viral infection, and more than 8 viruses have been linked. Other chronic health issues, trauma, or even genetics (repeated attacks or family history) can play a role.
An Integrative Approach
There is beauty in combining systems of medicine. Using both Western and East Asian approaches together can dramatically improve outcomes (4).
“In some countries, combining acupuncture with standard care is routine practice — and outcomes improve dramatically.”
⚠️ Important: Seek immediate medical help if you experience any paralysis, as stroke must be ruled out. Bell’s Palsy is not a stroke, but symptoms can appear very similar.
References
Madhok VB, Gagyor I, Daly F, Somasundara D, Sullivan M, Gammie F, Sullivan F. Corticosteroids for Bell's palsy (idiopathic facial paralysis). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2016, Issue 7. Art. No.: CD001942. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001942.pub5
Gagyor I, Madhok VB, Daly F, Sullivan F. Antiviral treatment for Bell's palsy (idiopathic facial paralysis). Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2019, Issue 9. Art. No.: CD001869. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001869.p
Gökçe Kütük S, Özkan Y, Topuz MF, Kütük M. The Efficacy of Electro-Acupuncture Added to Standard Therapy in the Management of Bell Palsy. J Craniofac Surg. 2020;31(7):1967-1970. doi:10.1097/SCS.0000000000006537
Effectiveness of strengthened stimulation during acupuncture for the treatment of Bell palsy: a randomized controlled trial. CMAJ. 2013;185(6):473-478
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