Neuromuscular facial retraining requires a team approach where the patient actively participates in a custom exercise programme designed and modified by a specially trained physiotherapist. Together, the patient and physiotherapist will work towards accurate, controlled and symmetrical facial movements, both at rest and during movement.
Who Would Benefit?
Individuals with facial paralysis, asymmetries and/or dysfunctions due to any of these conditions can benefit from neuromuscular facial retraining techniques, even years after the initial onset of the paralysis:
- Bell’s Palsy
- Acoustic Neuroma and other tumours
- facial trauma
- Herpes Zoster (Ramsey Hunt Syndrome)
- post-surgical conditions such as nerve grafting or muscle transfers
Efficacy of Feedback Training in Long-Standing Facial Nerve Paresis
Services Include:
- comprehensive assessment of facial movement and evaluation of facial muscle function in a completely private treatment setting
- patient education with respect to facial anatomy, kinesiology, nerves and nerve recovery
- reinforcing eye care prescribed by physician
- relaxation or facilitation techniques for high or low tone muscles
- customized neuromuscular training programme with specific, selective exercises to promote facial symmetry and balance of movement
- individualized home programme
- regular reassessment and follow-up with appropriate programme modifications
Practical Considerations:
There must be some nerve recovery or active muscle contraction prior to beginning the active facial movement training. However, …
- Early assessment and regular follow-up with a trained physiotherapist will ensure that facial rehabilitation will be started at the optimal time.
- Early education with respect to eye care and relaxation and facilitation techniques will support a better recovery.
- Although some facial nerve injuries can spontaneously recover, if, after six months, recovery is not complete, it may be time to begin facial rehabilitation.
References Supporting Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation:
Ross, B., Nedzelski, J.M. & McLean, J.A.: Efficacy of Feedback Training in Long-Standing Facial Nerve Paresis. Laryngoscope 101(7), July 1991.
Diels, H.J.: New Concepts in Nonsurgical Facial Nerve Rehabilitation. Advances in Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery (9), 1995.
Diels, H.J., Combs, C.: Neuromuscular Retraining for Facial Paralysis. Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America 1995.
Clinical Associate for Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation:
