Bell's palsy happens suddenly.  You may awake with one part of your face drooping.  

How does Bell's Palsy happen?

The 7^th cranial nerve is responsible for this problem.  It is called (and rightfully so), the facial nerve.   This nerve passes through an opening in the temporal bone located on the side of your head.  If irritated, stretched or impinged it will lose its ability to innervate the facial muscles of your face. 

What happens if you have Bell's Palsy?

You may be unable to raise your eyebrows, pucker your lips, blink or smile.  Basically, you have lost the ability to produce a facial expression.  It can sometimes seem like you are having a stroke.  After a stroke is ruled out, this is when you know it is bell's palsy. 

What are the symptoms of Bell's Palsy?

Pain around the ear can often happen before the facial nerve shows signs of paresis (muscle weakness) or paralysis.  The front of one side of the face usually feels heavy or numb.  Paresis, often with complete paralysis, develops within hours and is usually maximal within 48 to 72 hours. 

When having these symptoms it is always recommended to first see a Medical Doctor to make sure you are cleared of the following before starting alternative treatment:

1. Herpes
2. Ear infections
3. Sarcoidosis
4. Lyme disease
5. Skull fractures
6. Carcinomatous
7. Meningitis
8. Tumors

What are medical treatments for Bell's Palsy?

Medical doctors like to administer corticosteroids which can only be given a limited amount of times and actually has been shown to decrease healing time for tissues in the body and break down joint and bone tissue if used long term.  

What are chiropractic treatments for Bell's Palsy?

Chiropractors can adjust the first bone (Atlas) in your neck which can free up the fascial nerve without any side effects.  C1 or Atlas is located near the brain stem and can affect the whole body. Even if you are not an advocate for chiropractic or have never tried.  

Getting treatment is safe, effective and has no side effects.  Ingesting drugs is always there as an option if the treatment does not provide results.  It is recommended to try alternative methods before taking drugs for symptoms. Pharmaceuticals can produce harmful affects on the liver, kidneys, pancreas and other organs and stress the system.  Try chiropractic, you may be surprised by the results!

Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF is a well rounded chiropractor that can help athletes, pregnant moms, recovery from auto accident and so much more.  She offers lifestyle solutions that can help with digestion, sleep, pain, organ health and full body recovery and wellness. Her services go far beyond muscles and bones.  Contact our San Francisco, CA or San Carlos, CA office today!