Facial Paralysis

Acupuncture and electroacupuncture treatments for facial nerve paralysis help improve symptoms by stimulating acupoints along the nerve pathway and facial muscles, such as those around the corners of the mouth and cheeks. Since electroacupuncture improves blood flow around the nerve and simultaneously stimulates the rehabilitation of paralyzed muscles, it is more effective when combined with standard Western treatments, such as steroids. It is important to adjust the stimulation intensity and the composition of acupoints according to the onset time and severity of the condition. At Dongjedang Korean Medicine Clinic, acupuncture treatment is structured into three stages: Cheongsang (Clearing Upward) to reduce heat and pressure concentrated in the face; Haedok (Removing Toxins) to clear blood stasis and phlegm that obstruct circulation; and Sunhwan (Relaxation) to loosen stiff neck and shoulders to increase blood flow. Depending on the onset time, emphasis is placed on improving circulation during the acute phase and muscle rehabilitation during the recovery phase. For those who wish to combine Western and Korean medicine, we recommend starting treatment at a Korean medicine clinic immediately after beginning steroid use.