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.
Bell’s Palsy symptoms usually appear suddenly and may include:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
While individual results vary, addressing spinal and postural imbalances may help reduce stress on the nervous system and support a more balanced healing environment.
At Cold Laser Perth, we combine cold laser therapy with supportive chiropractic care to promote a well-rounded recovery. This approach may help:
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.
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.
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.
I was first introduced to the world of Chiropractic in my teenage years, when I was given the opportunity to observe my cousin who is a chiropractor. During my brief time in observation, I witnessed the wonder of chiropractic and it was truly a miracle to me, seeing how it can change a person’s life. An old lady came in limping with chronic pain, after the treatment, she walked out perfectly fine with a big smile on her face. She held onto my hand to say thank you to me, even though I was just standing there doing nothing. It filled with me with such joy and fulfillment that in that instance, I made up my mind to become a chiropractor, no matter what it took. I graduated from Murdoch University with Distinction honours in 2016. During these 5 years at University, I participated in a 2 week placement in Northern India, called “Hands on India”, helping to raise over $80,000 to assist the communities living in poverty there, in return, I gained a wealth of knowledge and I was humbled by the amazing people there. In my role at Lakeside Chiropractic, I endeavor to provide excellent Chiropractic care and health advice to our community. I keep myself current with the best available research and professional development opportunities. I absolutely love being a Chiropractor and find that one of the most rewarding parts is being able to assist my patients in expressing their optimal health. My special interests are cervicogenic migraine, TMJ and sciatic pain. I especially love helping our moms-to-be achieve their best shape along the journey, this lead me to recently attended seminars for women’s fertility and pregnancy care essentials. Outside of the clinic, I enjoy my routine of going to yoga and pilates 3 times a week, as well as being a couch potato in front of TV with family. Born and raised in Malaysia, I am also fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin.
