Affiliation:
1. Shanghai Pudong Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion , Shanghai 201299 , China
2. Shanghai Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Department of Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine , Shanghai 200071 , China
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of electroacupuncture (EA) using intermittent wave stimulation in enhancing facial symmetry and nerve function in chronic Bell’s palsy patients.
Methods
A 6-week assessor-blinded, randomized trial followed by an 18-week observational period was conducted. Sixty individuals with chronic Bell's palsy, showing no signs of recovery after 12 months, were equally divided to receive either 18 sessions of EA using intermittent wave stimulation or Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation (TES), administered thrice weekly over 6 weeks. The primary outcome measure was the change in the total facial nerve index (TFNI) score from baseline to Week 6, with secondary outcomes including TFNI scores at Weeks 12 and 24, as well as the change in Sunnybrook Facial Grading System (SFG) score from baseline to Week 6, and SFG scores at Weeks 12 and 24.
Results
The EA group showed a significant improvement, with a mean total facial nerve index score increase of 24.35 (4.77) by Week 6 compared with 14.21 (5.12) in the Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation group (P<.001). This superiority persisted during the 24-week follow-up. While no significant difference was observed in the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System score change from baseline to Week 6, variations were noted at Weeks 12 and 24. No major adverse effects were reported.
Conclusion
EA with intermittent wave stimulation notably enhanced facial symmetry in chronic Bell’s palsy patients over Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation by Week 6, maintaining this edge throughout the follow-up.
Funder
Pudong New Area Health Commission, Shanghai, China
Shanghai Municipal Health Commission
The Science and Technology Commission of Shanghai Municipality Shanghai, China
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)