What is Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes sudden weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It occurs due to inflammation or compression of the facial nerve (7th cranial nerve), which controls facial muscles. This condition can appear suddenly and usually reaches its peak within 48 hours.

While Bell’s Palsy is often temporary, physiotherapy plays a key role in speeding up recovery and preventing complications like muscle stiffness or permanent weakness.

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Causes of Bell’s Palsy

Although the exact cause is not always clear, it is often linked to:

• Viral infections (e.g., Herpes simplex virus)
• Inflammation of the facial nerve
• Cold exposure or stress
• Upper respiratory infections
• Diabetes or high blood pressure (increased risk)

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Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy

✅ Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
✅ Drooping mouth and eyelid
✅ Difficulty closing one eye
✅ Loss of facial expressions (smiling, blinking)
✅ Drooling
✅ Altered taste or hearing sensitivity
✅ Dry eye or mouth on the affected side

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Physiotherapy Treatment for Bell’s Palsy

Physiotherapy can help restore facial movement, prevent muscle stiffness, and improve symmetry. At Britanna Physiotherapy Clinic, we offer evidence-based treatments to support faster recovery.

1. Facial Muscle Exercises

✔ Gentle movements to activate and strengthen weakened muscles
✔ Exercises like raising eyebrows, smiling, puckering lips, closing eyes tightly
✔ Repetition and gradual progression under physiotherapist guidance

2. Neuromuscular Re-Education

✔ Improves coordination and control between nerves and facial muscles
✔ Techniques to retrain proper muscle patterns

3. Massage Therapy

✔ Gentle facial massage to reduce stiffness, improve circulation, and relax tight muscles
✔ Helps prevent muscle contractures and pain

4. Electrical Stimulation

✔ Low-level electrical currents to stimulate facial nerves and muscles
✔ Promotes nerve reactivation in early or delayed recovery cases

5. Heat Therapy

✔ Warm compresses to relieve tightness and reduce discomfort

6. Mirror Feedback Training

✔ Helps patients visually monitor and correct facial movement during exercises

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Self-Care Tips

✔ Protect the Eye – Use artificial tears, sunglasses, or eye patch to prevent dryness or injury
✔ Stay Positive & Consistent – Most people recover fully or significantly within 3–6 months
✔ Perform daily exercises – Regular facial movement helps rebuild function
✔ Avoid overworking the face – Gentle, slow movements are better than forceful exercises

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Why Choose Britanna Physiotherapy Clinic for Bell’s Palsy?

🏥 Expert Neurological Physiotherapists with experience in treating facial nerve conditions
🔬 Advanced Techniques – Including electrotherapy and neuromuscular retraining
💡 Personalized Recovery Plans – Tailored to your severity and stage of recovery
🌟 Supportive Environment – Compassionate care and encouragement throughout your healing

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Book Your Bell’s Palsy Rehabilitation Today!

If you’re suffering from facial weakness or paralysis, don’t wait! Early physiotherapy intervention increases the chance of full recovery. Contact Britanna Physiotherapy Clinic in Kandy today to begin your personalized treatment program.

Call us today to schedule your physiotherapy session and start your journey to a healthier life! 077 977 9116 for physiotherapy appointment please call us from 9.00am to 6.00pm