Facial Paralysis is a disorder also known as "Ball's Palsy", in which the facial muscles of one side become (usually suddenly) weak or paralyzed. The paralysis causes distortion of the face and interferes with normal functions, such as closing the eye and eating. It is thought to be caused by inflammation of the facial nerve. In TCM therapy especially acupuncture treatment has shown some effectiveness in treating this condition. According to TCM, Facial Paralysis is due to an obstruction disrupting the flow of circulation caused by pathogens invading the channels traversing the face. These obstructions prevent the vessels and muscles from receiving the necessary nourishment. The acupuncture needles unblock the obstructions at the dams, and reestablish the regular flow through the meridians. Acupuncture thus helps to correct imbalances in the facial energy and circulation. Continue to read Chinese medicine Treatment for Stroke (Apoplexy). 

Treatment Plan: Choose from the following distal and local points depending on the location of the paralysis.

Distal Points: LI4, TB5 Chosen by which channel is primarily involved. LI4 and LV3 (the "four gates") can be used to expel wind from the face.

 

Local Points: GB 14 needled horizontal and downwards.

 BL 2 needled horizontal and downwards or towards Yu Yao.

Yu Yao horizontal towards BL2.

TB 23 towards Yu Yao.

GB 1 towards Yu Yao.

ST 2 horizontal downwards.

SI 18 horizontal towards LI 20.

LI 20 horizontal towards SI 18.

ST 7 horizontal towards ST 4.

ST 6 oblique towards ST 4.

ST 4 horizontal towards ST6.

LI 19 horizontal towards LI 20.

Ren 24 horizontal towards ST 4.

Du 26 horizontal towards LI 19.