Face It! Bell's Palsy-Training 1.3

Have you experienced sudden facial paralysis? There is hope. Initiating targeted training may be beneficial during this challenging time.

“Performing the exercises motivated me to take proactive steps regarding my condition—unlike at the hospital, where I was not provided with information about training paralyzed muscles.” – Pär, 35

Peripheral facial paralysis, commonly known as Bell's palsy, can strike unexpectedly, with symptoms sometimes developing gradually. Many individuals wake up to find one side of their face paralyzed. Often, the exact cause remains unknown.

The objective of the Face It! Bell’s Palsy-Training™ app is to offer comprehensive information about Bell's palsy and guidance on initiating a personalized training program. To confirm a diagnosis of Bell's palsy, it is essential to consult a qualified medical professional. Subsequently, professional physiotherapy advice can complement your training, and this app serves as a valuable supplementary tool.

1. Contains detailed questions and responses regarding Bell's palsy.
2. Provides background on neuromuscular training techniques.
3. Includes specific exercises targeting weakened facial muscles.

Effective training requires active engagement and conscientious effort. The app employs PNF—Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation—a proven method that stimulates muscle response and enhances neuromuscular control. This approach helps maintain proprioception of facial movements and promotes muscle activity, empowering users to actively participate in their rehabilitation process.

Developed based on extensive clinical experience with Bell’s palsy and supported by research indicating that rehabilitation can be effective at any stage of recovery, the Face It! app encourages users to resume or begin exercises at any point, even after interruptions.

The app was created by Susanne Hedin, B.Sc., Registered Physiotherapist/Ergonomist, and Senior Instructor at IPNFA. Her expertise in treating Bell’s palsy and her scientific investigations into neuromuscular training underpin the content provided.

This project has been reviewed by:

• Hasse Ejnell, MD., Ph.D., Consultant, Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Sweden.
• Kristin Stjerna, B.Sc., Registered Physiotherapist, IPNFA Advanced Instructor, Haute école de Santé (Heds), Geneva, Switzerland.

www.ergonomhuset.se

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