What is Bell's Palsy?
When the facial nerves are damaged or traumatized in some way, it can cause temporary facial paralysis. The technical name for this condition is acute peripheral facial palsy, but it is more commonly known as Bell's Palsy.
Bell's Palsy can strike anyone of any age when the facial nerves are damaged. Doctors don't know exactly what causes this trauma to the nerves. Some suggest it may be due to viral infections, while others attribute it to dysfunctions of the nervous system. Some current research suggests that it may be due to a misalignment of the upper cervical spine.
Signs and Symptoms of Bell's Palsy
People suffering from Bell's Palsy experience sudden weakness or paralysis of one side of the face. Without warning, that side of the face may simply droop. The drooping is most noticeable around the corner of the eye and mouth. The paralysis generally results in drooling, and it may become difficult to eat, drink, or speak properly.
People with Bell's Palsy may lose their sense of taste, while their sense of hearing may become more sensitive on the side of the face that's afflicted. They may experience some pain as well around the jaw or ear.
How the Upper Cervical Spine Affects Bell's Palsy
Modern research suggests that a disruption of nerve signals flowing between the brain stem and craniofacial nerves could be responsible for the paralysis and other symptoms associated with Bell's Palsy. Any inflammation, compression, or pressure can affect the nerves, disrupting the flow and causing misfired nerve signals.
The top seven vertebrae which run from the base of the skull down the neck make up the upper cervical spine. It is this part of the spine that rests close to the brain stem and the clusters of nerves that run through the face. It is also this part of the spine that is prone to accidents and injuries that may result in misaligned vertebrae. These misalignments may be the key cause of Bell's Palsy.
How Our Bell's Palsy Treatment Works
When treating Bell's Palsy, we like to make sure the upper cervical spine is properly aligned to prevent and reverse any nerve damage. Our upper cervical spine expert, Dr. Gordon Elder, begins treatment with a thorough screening to pinpoint the problems. Utilizing our state-of-the-art 3D diagnostic imaging tools, the doctor can pinpoint any problem areas.
Dr. Elder is a specialist in the Blair Chiropractic Technique, a modern technique involving gentle pressure in precisely calculated locations. The Blair technique is safe and non-invasive, gentle enough to treat even children and elders with Bell's Palsy.
After Dr. Elder makes the necessary corrections, a series of follow-ups will ensure the vertebrae remain properly aligned to continue the healing process. After treatment is complete, the doctor recommends regular checkups to keep the upper cervical spine in good alignment, and your body in good health as a result.
If you or a loved one are struggling due to Bell's Palsy, contact us for an appointment. We see patients in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa, Abilene, and El Paso in Texas, as well as Hobbs in New Mexico.
Published by Vic Belonogoff: A Blair Chiropractic doctor helped heal vertigo, among other conditions that Vic Belonogoff suffered from, and it gave him his life back. He continues to see an upper cervical chiropractor as a preventative measure. Vic Belonogoff is passionate about upper cervical chiropractic and how much it helps patients.