Acupuncture In Treating Bell’s Palsy: A Case Report Study

Abstract

Bell’s palsy is considered rare in the United States, with 25-35 people affected per 100,000 population, according to the National Organization for Rare Disorders (2022). The condition can significantly affect a person’s quality of life due to paralysis usually occurring on one side of the face or, infrequently, both sides. The primary protocol for biomedical treatment of Bell’s palsy is steroids and antiviral medication with observation and follow-up after the acute phase. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) can be a powerful adjunct to supplement biomedicine; it can help to manage Bell’s palsy from the acute phase through recovery. This two-case series highlights the effectiveness of the (TCM) approach to treating Bell’s palsy, including Chinese herbal medicine and electroacupuncture modalities.