Bell's palsy: an overview

Abstract

Facial nerve palsies can have a dramatic effect on patients’ quality of life, leaving them permanently disfigured. Bell's palsy is thought to be the most common cause of acute unilateral facial paralysis. Its hallmark is its rapid onset, but the exact aetiology of Bell's palsy remains elusive, with some attributing it to viral, inflammatory or autoimmune causes and others to ischaemia. There is also some controversy as to the appropriate treatment. This article provides an overview of each of these areas, with a view to increasing awareness of this usually temprary but often distressing condition.

Effect of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation and Faradic Current Stimulation on the Recovery of Bell's Palsy

“…Alakram and Puckree [17] stated that although the use of TENS in early stages of Bell's palsy (after 2 weeks of onset) is safe, it is indistinguishable from spontaneous Bell's palsy recovery. Firas et al [31] reported that ES can be used in chronic Bell's palsy as it can protect facial muscles from atrophy or fibrosis and improve functional outcomes, especially in cases of total paralysis. Also, Gittens et al [32] found that the use of TENS in chronic cases for 3 months could improve the voluntary movements of the eyelid which may be attributed to a reduction in eyelid stiffness.…”