Neural mobilization in Bell's palsy: A case report

Cranio. 2021 May;39(3):266-269. doi: 10.1080/08869634.2019.1610996. Epub 2019 May 1.

Abstract

Background: Bell's palsy (BP) is a sudden onset of signs and symptoms of facial nerve dysfunction. The treatment of choice is corticosteroids and antiviral drugs. These drugs are risky for individuals with pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and digestive disturbances. Therefore, a beneficial complementary therapy would add to the success of treatment.Clinical Presentation: A 42-year-old male presented with left side facial paralysis and asymmetry. The patient received neural mobilization along with routine physical therapy for 1 hour, 5 days a week, for 3 weeks. A follow-up was scheduled at the 8th week.Clinical Relevance: Neural mobilization technique of the facial nerve is a novel and safe addition to the conservative treatment of BP.

Keywords: Bell’s palsy; acute facial neuropathy; case report; facial palsy; idiopathic facial paralyses; physical therapy modalities.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Antiviral Agents / therapeutic use
  • Bell Palsy* / drug therapy
  • Facial Paralysis* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Physical Therapy Modalities

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents