Acupuncture Treatment for Peripheral Facial Nerve Paralysis
Peripheral facial nerve paralysis is a peripheral facial nerve palsy caused by acute non-suppurative inflammation of the facial nerve within the stylomastoid foramen. Clinically characterized by sudden unilateral facial paralysis and deviation of the mouth and eye. Commonly presents two syndromes.
Differential Diagnosis and Treatment:
Primary Points: Dicang (ST4), Jiache (ST6), Yangbai (GB1), Sibai (ST2), Zanzhu (BL2), Quanliao (SI18), Hegu (LI4)
1. External Wind Invasion:
【Diagnostic Criteria】Sudden deviation of mouth and eye, abnormal facial sensation, dull pain behind ear or in ear, disappearance of forehead wrinkles; possibly accompanied by chills, fever, nasal congestion, runny nose; thin white or slightly yellow coating, floating tight or floating rapid pulse.
【Prescription】Fengchi (GB20), Yifeng (SJ17), Wai Guan (SJ5)
2. Internal Wind due to Deficiency:
【Diagnostic Criteria】Facial deviation, numbness and tightness in face, twitching of facial muscles, facial twitching when speaking or emotionally agitated, possible dizziness, tinnitus, dry eyes without tears; pale or red tongue with little coating, fine wiry pulse.
【Prescription】Taixi (KI3), Zusanli (ST36), Fengchi (GB20)
Other Therapies:
Auricular acupressure: Cheek area, liver, eye, mouth, brain, lower screen tip, forehead
Skin needle: Points selected: Yangbai (GB1), Zanzhu (BL2), Taiyang, Xiaguan (ST7), Dicang (ST4), Jiache (ST6), Fengchi (GB20). Method: Moderate stimulation followed by cupping therapy, every other day.