A randomized control trial of patients with Bell's palsy showed improved facial muscle recovery, reduced disability and better quality of life through acupuncture.Bell's palsy is a form of paralysis that affects the facial nerves. The effect can last for a few weeks but can be permanent depending on the damage or trauma on the facial nerves.
Bell's palsy occurs when there is some disruption in the function of the facial nerves beneath the ear to the muscles on each side of the face. This disruption can interrupt signals from the brain to the facial muscles resulting in paralysis or weakness.
This condition is named after Sir Charles Bell, a Scottish surgeon who was the first to describe it in 1829.
Aside from medication and physical therapy, acupuncture is also used as a form of therapy in treating the condition.
Acupuncture and De Qi
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical practice of using needles inserted into specific acupuncture points in the skin. The belief is that these points, when stimulated by the needles can correct imbalances in the flow of energy or life force known as qi or chi through channels known as meridians. A more western approach to acupuncture is by viewing it as a way to stimulate the nerves, muscles, and tissue which increases blood flow and boosts activity of the body's natural control systems.
The goal of acupuncture, in traditional Chinese practice, is to achieve de qi which refers to a sensation of numbness, distension, or electrical tingling at the needling site which might radiate along the corresponding meridian.
