Neuromuscular retraining for facial paralysis

Otolaryngol Clin North Am. 1997 Oct;30(5):727-43.

Abstract

Neuromuscular retraining is an effective method for rehabilitating facial musculature in patients with facial paralysis. This nonsurgical therapy has demonstrated improved functional outcomes and is an important adjunct to surgical treatment for restoring facial movement. Treatment begins with an intensive clinical evaluation and incorporates appropriate sensory feedback techniques into a patient-specific, comprehensive, home therapy program. This article discusses appropriate patients, timelines for referral, and basic treatment practices of facial neuromuscular retraining for restoring function and expression to the highest level possible.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A / therapeutic use
  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / complications
  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / pathology
  • Facial Nerve / pathology
  • Facial Paralysis / drug therapy
  • Facial Paralysis / etiology
  • Facial Paralysis / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Hemangioma / complications
  • Hemangioma / pathology
  • Humans
  • Neuromuscular Agents / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Neuromuscular Agents
  • Botulinum Toxins, Type A