Bell’s Palsy is a sudden condition that causes weakness or paralysis of the muscles on one side of the face. Patients often wake up noticing facial drooping, difficulty closing one eye, or an inability to smile properly. This sudden change creates fear and confusion, and many people mistakenly think it is a stroke.
In reality, Bell’s Palsy is a treatable neurological condition, and early physiotherapy plays a critical role in recovery. With proper rehabilitation, most patients can regain facial symmetry, muscle strength, and normal facial expressions.
At Asia Digital Physiotherapy Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center (ADPORC), Bell’s Palsy rehabilitation is managed through structured, evidence-based physiotherapy protocols under the supervision of Dr. Saddam Hossain, PT, focusing on early intervention and functional recovery.
What is Bell’s Palsy?
Bell’s palsy is an acute, unilateral, idiopathic lower motor neuron facial nerve (CN-VII) palsy that results in partial or complete paralysis of the facial muscles on one side of the face. It occurs due to inflammation and edema of the facial nerve as it passes through the narrow facial canal within the temporal bone.
The condition usually develops suddenly and reaches maximum severity within 48 to 72 hours. Unlike stroke, Bell’s Palsy affects only the facial nerve and does not involve weakness of the arms or legs.
Without timely and appropriate treatment, Bell’s palsy may progress to incomplete recovery, persistent facial weakness, muscle tightness, and abnormal facial movements (synkinesis), which can significantly affect facial symmetry, speech, eye protection, and overall quality of life.
Common Symptoms
Patients with Bell’s Palsy may experience:
- Sudden facial weakness on one side
- Drooping of the mouth
- Inability to close one eye completely
- Bell’s Phenomenon (eye rolls upward when trying to close)
- Drooling of saliva
- Food getting stuck inside the cheek
- Difficulty in smiling, blowing air or whistling
- Altered taste sensation
- Dryness of the eye
- Hyperacusis (sounds seem louder than normal)
- Pain around the ear
- Slurred speech in severe cases
If untreated early, complications like synkinesis or facial stiffness may develop.
Major Causes
Bell’s palsy is mostly idiopathic, but may be associated with:
- Viral infections (Herpes Simplex, Herpes Zoster)
- Diabetes
- Exposure to cold air
- Ear infections
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Autoimmune disorders
- Pregnancy (especially in the third trimester)
- Genetic factors
- Immune system dysfunction
In Bangladesh, cases often increase during winter due to cold exposure and delayed medical attention.
Why Early Treatment is Critical in Bell’s Palsy?
Early treatment significantly improves recovery outcomes in Bell’s Palsy. When facial muscles are not activated, prolonged inactivity can lead to muscle atrophy, stiffness, and abnormal movement patterns known as synkinesis.
Delayed rehabilitation may result in:
- Persistent facial asymmetry
- Incomplete recovery of facial expressions
- Tightness and facial muscle imbalance
- Long-term functional and cosmetic concerns
Early physiotherapy helps maintain muscle health, improve nerve stimulation, and guide correct facial movements during recovery.
Role of Physiotherapy in Bell’s Palsy Recovery
Physiotherapy plays a central role in the rehabilitation of Bell’s Palsy. It focuses not only on muscle strength but also on neuromuscular coordination and functional facial expressions.
Key goals of physiotherapy include:
- Preventing facial muscle wasting
- Improving nerve-muscle communication
- Restoring symmetrical facial movements
- Reducing abnormal movement patterns
- Enhancing patient confidence and social interaction
Physiotherapy should always be individualized based on the stage and severity of the condition.
Common Myths About Bell’s Palsy
Several misconceptions delay proper treatment.
Common myths include:
- Bell’s Palsy will recover on its own without therapy
- Physiotherapy is not necessary
- Facial exercises should be avoided
- Electrotherapy is harmful
- Bell’s Palsy is the same as stroke, permanent
Proper patient education and timely physiotherapy can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
Physiotherapy Management of Bell’s Palsy at ADPORC
At ADPORC, we focus on early intervention to improve nerve recovery and facial symmetry.
Acute Stage Management
During the early stage, physiotherapy focuses on protection and gentle stimulation.
Interventions include:
- Patient education and reassurance
- Eye care advice and protection
- Gentle facial muscle stimulation
- Proper facial positioning and relaxation techniques
Recovery Stage Management
As nerve function begins to return, active rehabilitation is introduced.
This stage includes:
- Facial muscle exercises
- Mirror therapy for visual feedback
- Neuromuscular re-education techniques
- Soft tissue mobilization of facial muscles
Advanced Rehabilitation Stage
In later stages, therapy focuses on refining movement quality.
Advanced interventions include:
- Coordination and control exercises
- Synkinesis management techniques
- Functional facial expression training
- Gradual return to social and professional activities
Role of Electrotherapy in Bell’s Palsy
Electrotherapy may be used selectively in Bell’s Palsy management. Electrical stimulation is not suitable for all patients and must be applied carefully based on clinical assessment and stage of recovery.
When appropriately indicated, electrotherapy may help to:
- Maintain muscle activity in severe paralysis
- Provide sensory stimulation
- Support early neuromuscular activation
At ADPORC, electrotherapy for bells palsy is used only after proper assessment and always under professional supervision to avoid complications or abnormal muscle activation.
Home Exercises You Can Try
Commonly recommended exercises:
-
Vowel Pronunciation Exercise: Slowly pronounce vowels such as “A, E, I, O, U” with clear lip and mouth movements while watching in a mirror. In addition, practice Arabic long vowel (Madd) sounds by extending the duration of each sound.
Benefit: Improves neuromuscular coordination of facial muscles and supports speech clarity. -
Eyebrow Lifting Exercise: Sit in front of a mirror and slowly try to raise both eyebrows together. Use your fingers lightly on the affected side if needed to assist the movement. Hold for a few seconds, then relax.
Benefit: Improves activation of the frontalis muscle and helps restore forehead movement and facial symmetry. -
Gentle Eye Closure Practice: Gently attempt to close both eyes at the same time without force. If the affected eye does not close fully, assist lightly with your fingers and then slowly release.
Benefit: Strengthens the orbicularis oculi muscle and reduces eye exposure, dryness, and irritation. -
Puffing Air Inside Cheeks: Take a deep breath and puff air into both cheeks evenly. Hold for a few seconds, then slowly release the air. Prevent air leakage from the affected side using your fingers if required.
Benefit: Enhances cheek muscle control and improves oral seal, helping with speech and eating. -
Smiling Practice (Controlled): Smile slowly while watching yourself in a mirror, focusing on moving both sides of the face equally. Avoid forceful or exaggerated movements. Hold briefly and relax.
Benefit: Promotes coordinated facial movement and prevents abnormal muscle patterns or synkinesis. -
Lip Pucker Exercise: Purse your lips as if whistling or blowing a kiss, hold for a few seconds, then relax. Repeat in a slow and controlled manner.
Benefit: Strengthens lip muscles and improves functions like speech articulation and drinking.
Perform 10-15 repetitions, twice daily, strictly under the guidance of a physiotherapist to avoid overuse or incorrect movement patterns.
When to See a Physiotherapist (Visit ADPORC)?
You should consult a physiotherapist if you experience:
- Sudden facial weakness or drooping
- Difficulty closing the eye
- Speech or eating difficulties
- No improvement within a few days of onset
Early consultation leads to better recovery and reduced long-term complications.
Why ADPORC is the Best Physiotherapy Center in Dhaka?
Expert Therapists - Certified professionals specializing in physical therapy:
- Expert Care by Dr. Saddam Hossain, PT Years of experience treating musculoskeletal and neurological conditions
- Advanced Equipment: Modern electrotherapy and rehab tools
- Personalized Attention: One-on-one therapy sessions
- Central Location: Conveniently located in Jatrabari, Dhaka
If you’re searching for the best physiotherapy for Bell’s Palsy in Dhaka, ADPORC offers structured and effective rehabilitation trusted by patients from Jatrabari, Dholaipar, Shonir Akhra, Doyagonj, Puran Dhaka, and nearby areas.
Book Your Appointment Today!
Don’t let Bell’s Palsy hold you back. Take the first step toward recovery and facial function restoration. Visit ADPORC and see why patients from Jatrabari, and surrounding areas (Dholaipar, Doyaganj, Shonir Akhra, Saydabad, Jurain, Hasnabad, Puran Dhaka, Keraniganj and Narayanganj) trust us as the most reliable physiotherapy center in Jatrabari, Dhaka-1204.
- Location: 270/1 Dholaipar, South Jatrabari, Dhaka-1204
- Call: 01950-935236
- Website: adporc.com
Asia Digital Physiotherapy & Orthopedic Rehabilitation Center