Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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+65 81535374 -
ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
Opening Hours
Mon to Fri: 08:00am - 8:00pm -
Opening Hours
Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Facial Palsy
What is facial palsy?
Facial palsy refers to paralysis or weakness of the facial muscles, most commonly affecting areas around the mouth and eyes. It occurs when the facial nerve, which controls these muscles, is damaged or not functioning properly, leading to a loss of voluntary muscle movement on one side of the face.
What causes facial palsy?
There can be several causes of facial palsy, including:
- Bell’s palsy – the most common cause, often linked to viral infections affecting the facial nerve
- Stroke – which can lead to central facial weakness, typically sparing the forehead
- Head trauma – resulting in direct damage to the facial nerve
- Infections – such as Lyme disease, Ramsay Hunt syndrome (shingles affecting the facial nerve), or middle ear infections
- Tumours – including acoustic neuromas or parotid gland tumours compressing the facial nerve
- Neurological conditions – like multiple sclerosis or Guillain-Barré syndrome
- Congenital causes – where facial palsy is present at birth
What are the symptoms of facial palsy?
Facial palsy typically affects one side of the face and can cause a range of symptoms, including:
- Drooping of the mouth or eyelid on one side
- Inability to close the eye fully, leading to dryness or irritation
- Loss of facial expressions, such as smiling or frowning
- Facial muscle weakness or paralysis
- Drooling due to difficulty controlling saliva
- Altered taste sensation, especially on the front two-thirds of the tongue
- Increased sensitivity to sound in one ear (hyperacusis)
- Difficulty speaking clearly or drinking from a cup
Physiotherapy for facial palsy
At Ace Physio Sports, our specialist physiotherapists are highly experienced in treating facial palsy. Physiotherapy is primarily focused on restoring function and improving facial movement. Treatment may include:
- Facial muscle re-education exercises to improve control and symmetry
- Massage and manual therapy to reduce tightness and promote relaxation
- Mirror therapy to aid visual feedback and movement awareness
- Neuromuscular stimulation to activate weak or unresponsive muscles
- Postural advice to support facial muscle coordination
- Education and home exercise programs to support long-term recovery
To achieve the best possible results, your physiotherapist will first carry out a comprehensive assessment of your facial movement, muscle strength, and nerve function. They will then discuss realistic goals and the most appropriate treatment options for your condition.
- Targeted facial exercises to strengthen weak muscles and improve symmetry
- Sensory stimulation techniques to enhance facial awareness
- Manual therapy and soft tissue techniques to reduce tension and promote circulation
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to activate underused muscles
- Relaxation strategies to manage overcompensation in unaffected areas
- Guidance on daily activities to avoid reinforcing poor movement patterns
Can facial palsy cause any long-term effects?
Facial palsy can vary significantly between individuals. For some, physiotherapy may lead to noticeable improvements and a reduction in symptoms. However, in other cases, the response to treatment may be more limited, and additional specialised interventions—such as medical, surgical, or multidisciplinary care—may be required to support long-term recovery and facial function.
To arrange an assessment with Ace Physio Sports, please email us at admin@acephysiosports.com or call +65 81535374.
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Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Sat: 8am - 4pm
Sun: On Appointment Basis
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