The Role of Acupuncture in the Management of Bell’s Palsy: A Review of the Evidence and Perspectives in Emergency Care

Abstract

Bell’s Palsy poses a significant challenge in emergency care settings due to its sudden onset and potential long-term consequences. This review paper explores the current evidence and perspectives on the use of acupuncture as a complementary approach in the emergency management of Bell’s Palsy. A comprehensive search of electronic databases was conducted to identify relevant studies regarding acupuncture in Bell’s Palsy management. The key findings and viewpoints were synthesized to provide an overview of the efficacy, safety, and clinical considerations associated with acupuncture in emergency care settings. This review highlights a growing body of evidence supporting the use of acupuncture as an adjunctive therapy for Bell’s Palsy. Studies suggest that acupuncture may help alleviate symptoms, promote nerve regeneration, and improve functional outcomes when combined with standard medical treatments. Furthermore, acupuncture is generally well tolerated and devoid of serious adverse effects, making it a potentially valuable intervention in emergency settings. While further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of acupuncture in Bell’s Palsy, current evidence suggests that it holds promise as a non-invasive and cost-effective adjunctive therapy in emergency care. Clinicians should consider integrating acupuncture into comprehensive treatment protocols for Bell’s Palsy, taking into account patient preferences, clinical expertise, and available resources.