The Importance of Physical Therapy in the Treatment of Unilateral Congenital Bell Paralysis – A Case Report

Abstract

Peripheral paralysis of facial nerve in the newly-born can be congenital and developed. In clinical sense, paralysis of facial nerve is characterised by paralysis of mimic face muscles that are controlled by a facial nerve. A female newly-born, delivered by Caesarean section was clinically diagnosed weakness on the right side of the face. Thirteen days after the birth the newly-born was examined by a physiatrist for the first time due to the weakness of the right facial side. During the first year of life a severe congenital lesion of facial nerve was diagnosed. Rehabilitation treatments were administered during the first year of life, with partial clinical improvement. The seriousness of facial nerve lesion has a significant influence on the degree of recovery. It is very important to identify the type of lesion by using efficient technology, since it is the only way to provide early and adequate therapy.