In this new edition of the NMT Newsletter we’ve focused on Bell’s Palsy and facial paralysis. Specific decompression NMT treatment protocols helps to reduce facial nerve compression and improve nerve regeneration possibilities in Bell’s Palsy. #NMT #bellspalsy #facialnerve #neuromusculartaping #facialparalysis
Introduction
Bell’s palsy is a condition characterised by the sudden onset of paresthesia, paralysis, or weakness of the muscles on one side of the face, resulting from damage to the facial nerve. This condition can also affect the sense of taste, tear production, and salivation. The exact cause of Bell’s palsy is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to viral infections, trauma, or, in rare cases, tumors affecting the facial nerve. Symptoms often include a drooping of one side of the face, difficulty closing one eye, nasal congestion, difficulty in speaking, eating, and drinking, as well as sensitivity to sound and light.
The facial nerve, also known as the seventh cranial nerve, controls the muscles of the face and is responsible for transmitting taste sensations from the front two-thirds of the tongue. When this nerve becomes inflamed, swollen, or compressed, it can lead to the symptoms associated with Bell’s palsy.
Viral infections, particularly herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) and herpes zoster virus (which causes chickenpox and shingles), are commonly associated with Bell’s palsy. These viruses are thought to cause inflammation of the facial nerve, leading to its dysfunction. Trauma, such as a skull fracture or injury to the face, can also damage the facial nerve and result in Bell’s palsy.
In rare cases, tumors, such as acoustic neuromas (benign tumors of the nerve that connects the ear to the brain), can compress the facial nerve and lead to its dysfunction. Other factors that may increase the risk of developing Bell’s palsy include diabetes, pregnancy, and a family history of the condition.
Symptoms of Bell’s palsy typically develop rapidly, often overnight, and reach their peak within 48 hours. The severity of symptoms can vary widely, from mild weakness to complete paralysis of the affected side of the face. In addition to facial weakness or paralysis, individuals with Bell’s palsy may experience other symptoms, such as pain or discomfort around the jaw or behind the ear, increased sensitivity or hyperacusis to sound on the affected side, and changes in taste.
Treatment for Bell’s palsy may include medications, such as corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and antiviral drugs if a viral infection is suspected. Physical therapy, including facial exercises and massage, can help improve muscle strength and coordination. In some cases, surgical procedures may be recommended to decompress the facial nerve or to correct any structural abnormalities that may be contributing to the condition.
The prognosis for individuals with Bell’s palsy is generally favourable, with most people experiencing a full or partial recovery within a few weeks to months depending on the initial cause of the nerve compression. However, some individuals may experience persistent facial weakness, lack of coordination, paresthesia, reduced sensitivity, or other long-term complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to minimising the impact of Bell’s palsy and promoting recovery.
NeuroMuscular Taping treatment for Bell’s palsy aims to reduce inflammation and facilitate muscle activity around the affected eye, as the inability to close the eyelid properly can lead to eye irritation, dryness, and potential infections. While some cases of Bell’s palsy resolve on their own within a few weeks, others may require intervention, including the use of medications and physical therapy to reduce facial nerve compression, improve nerve function, normalise sensitivity, and reduce pain.
NeuroMuscular Taping (NMT) is a non-invasive therapeutic technique that has shown clinical effectiveness in the treatment of Bell’s palsy. NMT involves the application of adhesive and elastic tape to the skin in specific lines of elasticity creating decompression to reduce pain and inflammation, improve blood circulation to weakened muscles, and enhance overall recovery.
Standardised application of decompression NMT has been applied to patients with Bell’s palsy in clinical treatments and trials since 2000, and improvements were noted in facial muscle elasticity and coordination. Patients reported a decrease in pain and an increase in facial mobility. Clinical physical therapists in public health services in the larger Emilia Romagna region of Italy concluded that NMT can be a valuable adjunct treatment for Bell’s palsy, reducing recovery time and improving the quality of life for patients.
Clinical goals of NeuroMuscular Taping protocols for Bell’s Palsy include reducing pressure on the facial nerve, facilitating the body’s healing processes, reducing recovery time, alleviating pain, improving mobility, and enhancing quality of life. These protocols are specific to medical, nursing, and rehabilitation professionals and have been developed by the NMT Institute. Professional development courses are available for medical doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals seeking to incorporate NMT into their practice.
References
- Gilden DH. Bell’s palsy. N Engl J Med. 2004;351(13):1323-1331. doi:10.1056/NEJMcp041120
- Adour KK, Byl FM, Hilsinger RL Jr, Kahn ZM, Sheldon MI. The true nature of Bell’s palsy: analysis of 1,000 consecutive patients. Laryngoscope. 1978;88(5):787-801. doi:10.1288/00005537-197805000-00015
- Peitersen E. Bell’s palsy: the spontaneous course of 2,500 peripheral facial nerve palsies of different etiologies. Acta Otolaryngol Suppl. 2002;(549):4-30. doi:10.1080/000164802760370736
- Heri Kristianto, Agung Waluyo, Em Yunir, David Blow. Neuromuscular taping application opportunities in nursing: A literature review. September 2020. Central European Journal of Nursing and Midwifery 11(3):143-151. DOI: 10.15452/cejnm.2020.11.0018
In conclusion
NeuroMuscular Taping shows promise as an adjunct treatment for Bell’s palsy, offering a non-invasive and effective way to reduce pain, improve facial muscle strength and coordination, and enhance overall recovery for patients with this condition.
See the LINKEDIN NMT Newsletter
Are you interested in enrolling in an NMT Course?
The NeuroMuscular Taping Institute provides certification courses in physical rehabilitation, neurology, oncology, post surgical rehab, occupational therapy, speech therapy, remedial therapy, nursing as well vascular and lymphedema treatment and management. All trainings are classroom settings to enhance skill development and clinical reasoning creating optimum therapeutic results. ONLINE courses are not available. Please contact your local course provider or visit the NMT WEB SITE for course programs and dates.
For more details, course listings, and registration for an upcoming course CLICK HERE
Do you require validation of your NMT methodology for research purposes?
A detailed Neuromuscular Taping methodology is crucial in any research project for several reasons. Repeatability, Transparency, Validity and Reliability of your treatment choices will not only have an impact on your research but also an impact on future therapeutic choices. For more detailed information about the NMT, please contact us at: david.blow@nmtinstitute.org
Know someone who might be interested in this newsletter? Share it with them.