Bell’s Palsy Massage

A Bell’s Palsy Massage is a therapeutic technique focused on improving facial muscle function, reducing discomfort, and supporting recovery in individuals with Bell’s palsy.  This condition is a sudden paralysis or weakness of the facial muscles due to facial nerve inflammation. Massage helps stimulate circulation, maintain muscle tone, and support functional symmetry as the nerve recovers.​​

Bell's Palsy

Signs & Symptoms

  • Sudden weakness or paralysis of facial muscles, typically one side

  • Drooping of the mouth, eyelid, or eyebrow on the affected side

  • Difficulty closing the eye, smiling, or eating

  • Loss of facial expression and uneven appearance

  • Facial pain, stiffness, or sensitivity (sometimes post-viral)

  • Changes in tear and saliva production; possible taste changes.​​

Contraindications

  • Avoid vigorous or deep massage if facial sensation is abnormal, acute skin infection, open sores, or unresolved trauma is present​

  • Caution in those with acute neurological signs, uncontrolled pain, or unresolved diagnosis; seek medical advice

  • Do not use electrotherapy or strong heat modalities unless guided by a healthcare provider

  • Gentle techniques only and never force facial muscle movement if painful

Assessment

  • Confirm diagnosis, onset, and current phase of Bell’s palsy (acute, intermediate, chronic)

  • Observe asymmetry, drooping, and loss of voluntary facial movement

  • Palpate for muscle tightness, loss of tone, soreness, or areas compensating for weakness

  • Assess for synkinesis (involuntary movement) and secondary muscle tension

  • Client feedback is essential to gauge comfort and technique response.​​

Treatment

  • Gentle effleurage: slow, circular strokes with the fingertips over forehead, cheeks, mouth, and jaw to stimulate blood flow​​

  • Manual manipulation: gently “shape” the lips, cheeks, and eyebrows, encouraging movement and symmetry​

  • Stretching: soft pressure to raise eyebrows, pucker lips, and support coordinated movement

  • Facial trigger point massage for discomfort, and moist heat applications (warm washcloth) after massage to enhance relaxation​​

  • Techniques done daily for several minutes; never force movements or apply strong pressure

  • Gradually add resistance or more focused work as voluntary movement returns.​​

Self Care

  • Perform daily self-massage of the entire face.  Small, circular strokes with gentle pressure, spending extra time on weaker areas​​

  • Practice facial muscle exercises and stretches as taught by a physical or massage therapist

  • Use warm compresses to relax muscles (ensure skin health and avoid burns)

  • Maintain eye protection if eyelid closure is limited (lubricating drops, eye patch)

  • Follow home exercise recommendations and monitor for changes; consult provider for persistent weakness or worsening symptoms