Chapter 2: Cranial and Peripheral Nerve Disorders = Bell's Palsy (Facial Paralysis)

  1. Definition
    • LMN lesion involving CN VII (facial nerve)
    • Results in unilateral facial paralysis
  2. Etiology
    • Acute inflammatory process of unknown etiology (viral or immune)
    • Results in compression of nerve within temporal bone
  3. Characteristics
    • Muscles of facial expression on one side are weakened or paralyzed
    • Loss of control of salivation or lacrimation
    • Onset = acute with maximum severity in a few hours or days
    • Commonly preceded by a day or 2 of pain behind the ear
    • Most recover fully in several weeks or months
    • Sensation is normal
  4. Examine/Determine
    • Drooping of corner of mouth
    • Eyelids that don't close
    • Function of muscles of facial expression (wrinkle forehead, raise eyebrows, down, smile, close eyes tightly, puff cheeks)
    • Taste of ant 2/3 of tongue
  5. Medications
    • Corticosteroids (prednisone)
    • Anlagesics
  6. PT Goals, Outcomes, and Interventions
    • Protect cornea (artificial tears or temporary patching) until recovery allows for eyelid closure
    • E-stim to maintain tone, support function of facial muscles
    • Provide active facial muscle exercises
    • May require face sling to prevent over stretching of muscles
    • Functional retraining = foods that can be easily eaten, chewing with opposite side
Author
dmshaw9
ID
298145
Card Set
Chapter 2: Cranial and Peripheral Nerve Disorders = Bell's Palsy (Facial Paralysis)
Description
NPTE: Chapter 2
Updated