Early neuro-physiotherapy in severe Bell’s palsy: a case report

Abstract

One of the most common acute peripheral facial nerve palsy is Bell’s palsy. The majority of patients recover spontaneously, but a significant number develop incomplete recovery or synkinesis. Early and structured physiotherapy can improve the function. A 68-year-old male came to our clinic with acute left-sided Bell’s palsy. His baseline Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFGS) score was 13/100. He underwent an intensive neurophysiotherapy program including neuromuscular retraining, soft tissue mobilization, and targeted facial exercises within 6 weeks of onset. At the 6-week follow-up, his SFGS improved to 100/100, with the return of near-normal facial symmetry and function. This case illustrates the potential of early evidence-based neuro-rehabilitation in bringing about rapid and complete functional recovery in severe Bell’s palsy. Timely physiotherapy should be considered a cornerstone of management.