Why is acupuncture considered critical in the early treatment of facial paralysis? Why we should do it everyday ? Is that too often?

Acupuncture is considered critical in the early treatment of facial paralysis—such as in Bell’s palsy—because the initial phase is when nerve inflammation and edema are at their peak. During this acute stage, acupuncture is believed to help in several ways:

• Reducing Inflammation and Edema: Early stimulation of specific acupoints may help modulate the inflammatory response, decrease swelling of the facial nerve, and reduce compression in the narrow bony canal where the nerve runs.

• Improving Blood Circulation: By enhancing microcirculation around the affected area, acupuncture facilitates the delivery of oxygen and nutrients, which supports the repair and regeneration of nerve tissues.

• Promoting Nerve Regeneration: Consistent stimulation can encourage neural plasticity, helping the damaged nerve fibers recover faster.

• Minimizing Long-Term Sequelae: When applied early, acupuncture might shorten the overall recovery time and reduce the risk of residual issues like muscle weakness or synkinesis.

Regarding frequency, many treatment protocols in the acute stage recommend daily sessions (often 5–7 days a week) because:

• Consistent Therapeutic Stimulation: Daily treatments ensure a steady intervention during the critical early phase, helping to keep inflammation and edema under control.

• Cumulative Benefits: The therapeutic effects of acupuncture—such as improved blood flow and reduced inflammatory markers—may build up with repeated sessions, leading to better outcomes.

• Adaptability: While daily sessions are common in the acute phase, the frequency is often adjusted as the patient improves; it’s not intended to be permanent daily treatment once recovery has progressed.

In summary, early and frequent (but typically short-term) acupuncture can be an important part of a comprehensive treatment plan for facial paralysis. This intensive phase isn’t “too often” because it targets the period when intervention can make the most difference, and treatment frequency is generally reduced as the condition improves.