Facial paralysis is a common condition characterized by impaired movement of the facial expression muscles. The main symptoms are crooked mouth and eye, with patients unable to perform basic actions such as raising eyebrows, closing eyes, or puffing cheeks. Let's take a look at the methods of treating facial paralysis with massage therapy.
Causes and Mechanisms of Facial Paralysis
Facial paralysis is primarily caused by deficiency of positive energy, weakness of collateral vessels, lack of external protection, and invasion of facial meridians by wind and cold pathogens (mainly the Yangming and Shaoyang meridians). This leads to abnormal circulation of meridian qi, disharmony of qi and blood, insufficient nourishment of meridians and tendons, and the development of the disease. It can also be caused by sequelae of stroke or insufficient blood supply to nourish the tendons.
Principles of Facial Paralysis Massage Therapy
Facial paralysis is often caused by wind pathogens obstructing the meridians, leading to stagnation and phlegm formation. This disrupts the flow of qi, resulting in crooked mouth and eye. The treatment principle is to expel wind and transform phlegm, suppress spasms caused by wind, and promote blood circulation and meridian flow.
Specific Acupoints for Facial Paralysis Massage Therapy
Wenliu Acupoint
Located 5 cun above the transverse crease on the back of the wrist, along the line connecting Yangxi and Quchi acupoints.
This acupoint belongs to the Hand Yangming Large Intestine meridian and massaging it regularly has the effect of clearing and purging pathogenic heat. It is one of the key acupoints for treating facial paralysis.
Massage technique: Bend the thumb and use the fingertip to press and massage the acupoint with moderate pressure. It should feel slightly sore. Massage for 3 minutes each time.
Pianli Acupoint
Located 3 cun above the transverse crease on the back of the wrist, along the line connecting Yangxi and Quchi acupoints.
This acupoint is a collateral point of the Hand Yangming Large Intestine meridian and massaging it regularly has the effects of improving vision and hearing, clearing heat, promoting urination, and facilitating meridian circulation.
Massage technique: Use the fingertip of the thumb to press and massage the acupoint for 2 minutes. Begin with gentle pressure and gradually increase it until a sore and swollen sensation is felt.
Jia Che Acupoint
Located on the face, 1 finger-width (middle finger) above the angle of the mandible.
This acupoint belongs to the Foot Yangming Stomach meridian and has the effects of clearing heat, dispelling wind, and relieving toothache. It is commonly used to treat facial paralysis and toothache.
Massage technique: Use the fingertip of the index finger to knead both sides of the acupoint with moderate pressure until a sore sensation is felt. Massage for 3 minutes each time. For better results, combine with Dicang and Hegu acupoints.
Facial Massage Techniques for Treating Facial Paralysis
Acupoints to be used: Taiyang, Dicang, Renzhong, Yangbai, Jiache, Yifeng, and the affected side of the face.
Common techniques: kneading, pressing, rubbing, etc.
Operation steps:
1. Use the fingertips to individually point, press, and knead the above acupoints for about 2-3 minutes each. For Dicang, Jiache, Yifeng, and the affected side, the massage time can be slightly longer.
2. Then use the palm to rub the entire affected side of the face for about 5-10 minutes.
3. Finally, use the palm to gently rub the affected side of the face until local warmth is felt.
Daily Care Tips for Facial Paralysis
1. Massage therapy for this condition should be performed promptly after the condition stabilizes. If combined with acupuncture or other therapies, the treatment effect will be better and the recovery will be faster. Patients who seek treatment after a long time since onset tend to have poorer recovery.
2. Pay attention to keeping the face warm and avoid cold stimulation to accelerate recovery.
3. Maintain a regular lifestyle, stay positive in emotions, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods.
4. After the nerve function starts to recover, instruct the patient to strengthen the voluntary movements of the paralyzed facial muscles through exercises.
