Facial Paralysis Physical Therapy
Facial expression is our primary form of non-verbal communication. Our face represents us to the world and tells others what we are feeling. Being unable to express emotions is a devastating impairment for any individual. Facial paralysis not only limits a person’s ability to show emotion, it can produce functional deficits, including inability to close the eyes and difficulty eating, drinking and speaking.
OUR PROGRAM
Our therapists have specific training in treating patients with various facial disorders, and are here to work with you and your physician to ensure an effective treatment program. Our facial retraining program uses non-invasive techniques to treat diagnosed facial paralysis. Patients undergo a detailed physical therapy evaluation of facial function and impairments, and receive hands-on treatments with specific neuromuscular retraining to help restore facial expression and function.
All work is performed in private, personalized treatment sessions focused on the patient’s specific goals. Patients receive a home program that relies on self-monitoring quality and symmetry of movement. Treatment intervals vary for each individual based on their goals, functional abilities, proximity to clinic, and the complexity of the intervention.
​
Some patients have accompanying balance and vestibular impairments. Symptoms may include: imbalance, fear of falling, dizziness, lightheadedness, vertigo, difficulty walking in the dark or on uneven surfaces, difficulty with quick head movement or bending over. Research supports favorable outcomes in balance/vestibular rehabilitation for individuals that receive individualized instruction in exercises specific to their impairments. Ascend Physical Therapy is equipped to skillfully evaluate and treat these disorders as well.
MEMBERS OF FACIAL PARALYSIS FOUNDATION
The Facial Paralysis and Bell’s Palsy Foundation is currently in the process of setting up regional support groups for those dealing with the physical, emotional and social effects of Bell’s palsy and long-term facial paralysis. If you are interested in being either a leader or a participant, please contact the foundation at facialparalysisfound@gmail.com.
​
This program will provide you with the information, resources and ongoing support necessary to start and maintain a support group in your regional area. We believe that giving and receiving encouragement from other persons who are experiencing many of the same health concerns as you or your loved one is of great benefit to all involved.
​
Ascend Physical Therapy periodically hosts workshops, sponsored by the Facial Paralysis and Bell’s Palsy Foundation, where persons with facial paralysis can gather to hear guest speakers, network, and encourage one another in their facial paralysis journey.
