Does Facial Paralysis Have a "Golden Period"?

Written By: Melody, TCM Practitioner.

Yes, facial paralysis does have a golden period 🌟!

The golden period for facial paralysis generally refers to within 1-2 weeks of onset. During this stage, the facial nerve's inflammatory response is relatively active, and its capacity for self-repair is stronger. If active treatment is initiated during this period, it can effectively promote the recovery of nerve function and reduce the occurrence of sequelae.

Why Is Early Treatment So Important?

👉🏻 Nerve Regeneration Capacity: 

The facial nerve possesses a certain capacity for regeneration. In the early stage, active treatment can promote the regeneration and repair of nerve fibers.

👉🏻 Preventing Nerve Fiber Atrophy: 

If left untreated, facial nerve fibers may atrophy, affecting functional recovery.

👉🏻 Reducing Sequelae: 

Early treatment can effectively reduce the occurrence of long-term complications of facial paralysis, such as facial muscle atrophy or stiff expressions.

Advantages of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine for Facial Paralysis

During the golden period of facial paralysis, combining Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Western medicine can offer greater advantages:

🔹Western Medicine

Primarily uses medications like corticosteroids and antiviral drugs to reduce nerve inflammation and promote nerve repair.

🔸Traditional Chinese Medicine

Methods such as acupuncture, cupping, and Chinese herbal medicine can improve local blood circulation, promote nerve function recovery, and also regulate the body's immune function.

Focus of TCM Treatment During the Golden Period

🪴 Acupuncture

Stimulates acupoints on the face and body to regulate Qi and Blood, promoting nerve function recovery.

🪴 Cupping

Applies negative pressure to the affected area to relax muscles and tendons, activate collaterals, and alleviate muscle spasms.

🪴 Chinese Herbal Medicine

Internal administration of Chinese herbs can clear heat, detoxify, invigorate blood, resolve stasis, and unblock collaterals to relieve pain.

Important Reminders

📣 The Sooner, The Better

Patients with facial paralysis should seek medical attention as early as possible to avoid delaying the optimal treatment window.

📣 Standardized Treatment

Treatment should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor; do not self-medicate.

📣 Maintain an Optimistic Mindset

 A positive attitude aids recovery.

📣 Persist with Treatment

Recovery from facial paralysis requires a process, and patients should persevere with treatment and not give up halfway.

The golden period for facial paralysis is the optimal time for treatment. Through integrated Chinese and Western medicine approaches, nerve repair can be effectively promoted, and the occurrence of sequelae can be reduced.

If you'd like to learn more about TCM wellness or wish to receive more personalized advice tailored to your specific situation, we recommend booking a consultation.