Supporting Bell’s Palsy Recovery with Acupuncture
Bell’s Palsy is a condition that causes sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. While the cause is often unclear, the effects can be distressing — from drooping on one side of the face to difficulty with blinking, eating, or smiling. Acupuncture offers a gentle, supportive approach to encourage recovery and restore facial function.
Understanding Bell’s Palsy
Bell’s Palsy typically affects one side of the face and is thought to result from inflammation or compression of the facial nerve. Symptoms can appear quickly and may include:
Drooping of one side of the face
Inability to close the eye or smile
Loss of facial expression
Changes in taste or increased sensitivity to sound
Pain around the jaw or behind the ear
While many people recover fully within weeks to months, others may experience lingering symptoms. Early and consistent care can support the body’s healing process.
How Acupuncture Can Help
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Bell’s Palsy is viewed as an external invasion that disrupts the normal flow of qi and blood in the facial meridians. Acupuncture aims to restore balance and support nerve recovery through:
Stimulating facial nerves and muscles to promote circulation
Reducing inflammation and easing pain or discomfort
Supporting the immune system and overall vitality
Calming the nervous system and relieving associated stress
Treatments are typically most effective when started early, ideally within the first two weeks of symptom onset, though acupuncture can still be beneficial at later stages to support continued recovery.
What to Expect During a Session
Acupuncture sessions for Bell’s Palsy are personalized and may include:
A thorough intake to assess symptom onset and severity
Fine, gentle needles placed locally on the face and in distal areas that support circulation and nerve function
E-stim (electroacupuncture) may be used to provide mild stimulation to facial points to support neuromuscular activation
Additional techniques such as cupping, moxibustion, or gua sha when appropriate to promote blood flow and reduce tension
Most clients find treatments to be relaxing, even when working on areas that are sensitive.
Your Recovery, Your Pace
Healing from Bell’s Palsy can look different for everyone. Whether you're in the early stages of the condition or still experiencing symptoms weeks or months later, acupuncture is a supportive tool to help guide the recovery process. The goal is to restore both function and comfort — in a setting that prioritizes your safety, well-being, and progress.
In Summary
Bell’s Palsy can be sudden and unsettling, but it does not have to be faced alone. Acupuncture provides a supportive, non-invasive way to help the body recover and restore function, while offering space for rest and renewal.
Written By: Alex Simmonds R.Ac TCM