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What is Bell's Palsy?

Bell's palsy is a type of facial paralysis that results in a temporary inability to control the facial muscles on the affected side of the face.

Is Bell’s common in Canada?

It is relatively common in Canada based on the number provided by CAO (Canadian Association of Optometrists) in 2023. The prevalence of Bell’s palsy is approximately 10-20 in every 100,000 people, generally affecting individuals between the ages of 15 to 45. So about 1 in 90 people will get it at some point in their life.

What are the causes of Bell’s palsy?

The cause of Bell’s palsy is unknown. However, the following conditions may be linked to it: Viral infections, bacterial infections, diabetes, hypertension, pregnancy, and exposure to extreme cold, such as Canada’s winter. Also, anything that can weaken your body’s immune system, such as high stress, smoke, alcohol, and lack of sleep.

What TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) can do to help Bell’s palsy?

Usually, TCM practitioners will provide acupuncture and/or herbal treatment to help Bell’s palsy patients. Acupuncture not only reverses the poor remodeling of the nervous system but also stimulates the release of neurotrophic substances such as nerve growth factors in the nervous system to ameliorate pain and promote the regeneration and repair of nerve fibers. Acupuncture needles are usually used on the face or body, depending on the TCM diagnosis. Herbs will focus on the root causes from TCM diagnosis, such as Wind, Phlegm, or Blood stasis.

Can TCM treatment shorten the treatment duration?

Yes, usually, you can expect a quicker recovery duration compared with the average 6 months from the western medicine.

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