Acupuncture and herbal medicine for Bells Palsy

 The patient

Patient's left side of his face went numb after taking antibiotics for an Urinary Tract Infection. He lost sense of taste, had constant discomfort behind the left side of the ear and neck, left eye lid and under eye area would twitch involuntarily. Left eye lid would not close fully and left eye developed dryness due to not able to close it at night. He lost control of the left side of the cheek, could not smile, pout and struggled to talk properly. 

The treatment

Patient received five sessions of acupuncture and two weeks supply of herbal medicine, gradually regained full functions on the left side of the face. Advice was given to support general health and prevent any further relapses. 

Acupuncture for Bells Palsy, image link

Acupuncture can be a very effective treatment method during the early onset of Bells Palsy. A full recovery can often be achieved with good cooperation of diet and lifestyle change. The earlier patients start treatment, the better the outcome. Herbal medicine will be given if there is underlying condition that needs to be address to enhance treatment outcome. 

To enquire or book an appointment, please email ivyxxu@xuclinic.co.uk with your contact details. 

Acupuncture for Bell's Palsy

Patient: 

Retired maternity nurse who seldom set foot outside of home for the last ten years due to fear of falling over. Both ankles are swollen. Patient sleeps on a recline chair at night.

Acupuncture for Bell's Palsy, image source

Presenting symptoms:

One sided facial paralysis with stabbing pain. Skin looked red, angry and flaky. Constipation, lost of appetite. 

Outcome: 

Home visit was offered due to the mobility of patient. The effect from just one session of acupuncture was enough to provide immediate pain relieve. On the following visit, patient's facial symptoms had cleared. Second session was aimed at consolidating the treatment effect and improve digestion and bowel movement.

Dietary & lifestyle change:

Advised patient to increase fluids intake and take up light housework when possible. A referral was also made to the local 'falls group' to help with her psychological issues of going outside.

Ivy's thoughts:

In China, bell's palsy is considered a 'mini stroke' and Acupuncture is the choice treatment. The sooner it is administered the better treatment outcome can be expected. In this case, the treatment result was remarkable good. 

If you would like further information on this blog or to discuss any conditions you would like to be treated, please do not hesitate to contact me via email ivyxxu@xuclinic.co.uk.