Cold Laser Therapy for Bell’s Palsy: A Natural Supportive Approach

Bell’s Palsy is a sudden, temporary weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. It can appear without warning and is often mistaken for more serious conditions such as stroke. Although the exact cause isn’t always clear, it’s believed to be linked to inflammation of the facial nerve, often triggered by viral infections like herpes simplex.

While many people recover completely, some experience prolonged facial weakness or discomfort. For those looking to support recovery naturally and non-invasively, cold laser therapy may offer a promising solution.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Bell’s Palsy?

Bell’s Palsy symptoms usually appear suddenly and may include:

• Sudden weakness or paralysis on one side of the face
• Difficulty closing the eye or smiling on the affected side
• Drooping of the mouth
• Excess tearing or dry eye
• Altered sense of taste
• Increased sensitivity to sound on one side
• Headache or ear pain

Symptoms often peak within 48 hours and can range from mild to severe. While some people recover within weeks, others may take months or require additional supportive care.

How Cold Laser Therapy May Help with Bell’s Palsy

Cold laser therapy, or low-level laser therapy (LLLT), is a non-invasive treatment that uses specific wavelengths of light to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and support nerve function. At Cold Laser Perth, located within Lakeside Chiropractic, we use the advanced MR5 ACTIV PRO LaserStim® device for precise and effective treatment.

🔬 Reduces Inflammation Around the Facial Nerve

Cold laser therapy is thought to reduce inflammation around the facial (cranial VII) nerve, which may be compressed or swollen in Bell’s Palsy. A study found that LLLT significantly improved outcomes in facial nerve recovery by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in affected nerve tissue.

💡 Enhances Nerve Regeneration and Function

LLLT has been shown to improve mitochondrial activity and ATP production in nerve cells, which may accelerate the healing and regeneration of damaged nerves. A double-blind controlled trial concluded that LLLT enhances nerve regeneration and function in peripheral nerve injuries, including facial paralysis.

😊 Improves Facial Muscle Function and Symmetry

In clinical trials, patients with Bell’s Palsy who received LLLT experienced improved facial muscle control and faster recovery of facial symmetry compared to those receiving placebo or no treatment. A randomized trial found that LLLT led to significantly faster recovery rates and reduced facial disability in Bell’s Palsy patients.

🌿 Safe and Non-Invasive

Cold laser therapy is painless, well-tolerated, and suitable for individuals seeking a drug-free approach. Sessions are quick, and treatment plans are tailored to the severity and progression of each case.

How Chiropractic Care May Help

Although chiropractic care does not directly treat the facial nerve, it may assist in supporting overall nervous system function and reducing musculoskeletal tension that can accompany Bell’s Palsy.

At Lakeside Chiropractic, chiropractors may use the following techniques:

• Neck and upper cervical adjustments to improve spinal alignment and neurological communication
• Soft tissue techniques to relieve tension in surrounding muscles, including those affected by compensation, ie, your TMJ muscle, facial muscle and neck muscle.
• Postural and ergonomic advice to reduce unnecessary strain during recovery

While individual results vary, addressing spinal and postural imbalances may help reduce stress on the nervous system and support a more balanced healing environment.

Combining Chiropractic and Cold Laser Therapy

At Cold Laser Perth, we combine cold laser therapy with supportive chiropractic care to promote a well-rounded recovery. This approach may help:

• Reduce inflammation and nerve pressure
• Support nerve healing and facial movement
• Improve posture and reduce strain from muscle compensation
• Enhance patient comfort and wellbeing throughout recovery

If you're experiencing facial weakness or have been diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy, reach out to our team at Cold Laser Perth at 9300 0095 to explore whether cold laser therapy could be a suitable part of your care plan or visit our website at www.coldlaserperth.com.au for more information.

📍 Serving the Joondalup & Northern Suburbs of Perth Lakeside Chiropractic is central to the northern suburbs of Perth, located in the City of Joondalup.

If you are in the surrounding suburbs such as Yanchep - 6035, Tapping - 6065, Carramar - 6031, Currambine - 6028, Wanneroo - 6065, Heathridge - 6027, Edgewater - 6027, Gnangara - 6077, Mullaloo - 6027, Padbury - 6025, Kingsley - 6026, Woodvale - 6026, Banksia Grove - 6031, or Duncraig - 6023, our team is here to assist you.

References:

1. Springer Study (2021)
Zhao, J., Liu, B., Ma, X., Zhang, J., Zhang, Y., & Liu, W. (2021). Photobiomodulation enhances facial nerve regeneration via improving functional recovery and inhibiting oxidative stress–induced Schwann cell apoptosis. Lasers in Medical Science, 36(5), 987–995. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10103-021-03344-8

2. Alayat et al. (2014)
Alayat, M. S., Atya, A. M., Ali, H. M., & Shosha, T. M. (2014). Efficacy of high- and low-level laser therapy in the treatment of Bell’s palsy: A randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Lasers in Medical Science, 29(1), 335–342. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23709010/

3. Laser Therapy Meta-Analysis (2023)
Lu, Q., Wang, Y., Jin, Y., Wu, Y., Xu, H., & Shi, Y. (2023). Laser therapy for Bell's palsy: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized trials. Lasers in Medical Science, 38(1), 51. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39546047/

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results may vary.