Bell’s Palsy is a partial or complete paralysis to the muscles on one side of your face caused by the dysfunction of the 7th cranial nerve. The nerve is damaged by inflammation causing it to become enlarged. Where the nerve exits the skull through the stylomastoid foramen, the swelling restricts the blood supply to the nerve causing ischemia – reduced blood supply and thus oxygen to the nerve. In most cases this is temporary, improving in a few weeks and resolving in 6 months.
The exact cause of the condition is not clear, however, it is often related to a viral infection. Viruses that have been implicated with Bell’s Palsy are:
The main treatment for this condition is the use of corticosteroids. Physiotherapy helps prevent the muscles from contractures or shortening through:
Are you suffering from Bell’s Palsy? Contact Vitalis Physiotherapy now to book in your treatment. Call our friendly team on 0410 559 856. We’d love to help.
