Facial Paralysis Explained: Causes, Associated Symptoms, and What Recovery Looks Like

About this episode

This episode explores facial paralysis, its causes, symptoms, and recovery options with expert insights from clinicians.

In this episode of Talk Dizzy To Me, Dr. Abbie Ross, PT, NCS is joined by vestibular and neuro experts Dr. Carly Lochala, PT, NCS and Dr. Sara MacDowell, PT to break down facial paralysis, including Bell’s palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, and facial nerve recovery. They dive into how facial paralysis affects not just movement, but also confidence, communication, and daily life... and what both clinicians and patients need to know about assessment, treatment, and recovery. Key Takeaways: - Facial paralysis is commonly caused by Bell’s palsy, but can also result from Ramsay Hunt syndrome, tumors, trauma, or infections - The facial nerve (cranial nerve VII) controls facial expression, taste, tear production, and more - Recovery depends on degree of nerve damage, not just diagnosis - You cannot “exercise” your way out of paralysis early on... the nerve must heal first - Improper exercises or overstimulation can worsen recovery - Facial paralysis has a major psychosocial impact - There are treatment options—even long-term—despite common myths Episode Resources: ⁠https://facialtherapyspecialists.com/⁠ ⁠https://www.facialpalsy.org.uk/⁠ ⁠http://bellspalsy.ws/⁠…

People in this episode

Host: Dr. Abbie Ross

Guests: Dr. Carly Lochala, Dr. Sara MacDowell

Topics covered

• facial paralysis
• Bell's palsy
• Ramsay Hunt syndrome
• facial nerve recovery
• psychosocial impact
• treatment options

Keywords

• facial paralysis
• Bell's palsy
• Ramsay Hunt syndrome
• facial nerve
• recovery
• treatment
• psychosocial impact

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Balancing Act Rehab, Facial Therapy Specialists, Facial Palsy UK, Bell's Palsy WS, Facial Paralysis Foundation

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