Hello. This is Dalimchae Korean Medicine Clinic.
To answer directly: yes, facial paralysis can be fully treated at a Korean medicine clinic. In Korean medicine, this condition is called guanwasa. It occurs when cranial nerve VII—the facial nerve—is affected, causing difficulty moving facial muscles.
What Causes Facial Paralysis?
No single definitive cause has been identified. However, common contributing factors include:
- Reduced circulation around the facial nerve
- Blood vessel constriction
- Sudden temperature changes
- High blood pressure
- Severe stress
- Overwork and irregular lifestyle
These factors often work in combination. Simply put, it's a problem caused by nerve compression and blocked circulation.
Key Symptoms of Facial Paralysis
- Can't wrinkle the forehead
- Difficulty closing the eye
- Awkward pronunciation of "ah, eh, ee, oh, oo"
- Food or water leaks from one side
- Asymmetric lip shape
- Reduced sense of taste
If you notice these symptoms, visit a nearby clinic immediately.
Why Early Treatment Matters
The golden window is critical for facial paralysis. Starting treatment early results in fewer aftereffects.
It's not about finishing steroid treatment first and then starting Korean medicine—rather:
- Western treatment addresses acute inflammation
- Korean medicine treatment restores circulation and the body's healing power
Research shows that combining both approaches leads to faster recovery. What matters most isn't "which comes first" but not missing the golden window.
Treatment Methods at Our Clinic
Acupuncture, Cupping, Chuna, and Thread Embedding
The foundational treatment. Opens blocked circulation and supports facial nerve recovery.
High-Frequency Therapy
Delivers deep thermal stimulation to facial muscles, promoting muscle relaxation and improved blood flow.
Light Therapy
Uses specific wavelengths to promote nerve and blood vessel regeneration. It's a lying-down treatment with virtually no pain. A good option for those uncomfortable with needles.
Treatment Duration and Aftereffects
Recovery within the first 3 weeks is critical. During weeks 1-2, symptoms may feel worse. But by week 3, most patients see noticeable improvement.
During this period, we recommend treatment almost daily. If the 3-week window is missed and aftereffects remain, treatment takes longer and specialized procedures like thread embedding may be needed.
Lifestyle Tips for Recovery
The key to facial paralysis recovery is keeping warm and supporting circulation.
- Choose lukewarm or warm foods over cold ones
- Gently apply warm compresses to the face
- Avoid cold air and drafts
- Be careful in environments with large temperature differences
Even in summer, air conditioning can cause blood vessel constriction due to temperature gaps.
Is Eye Twitching a Warning Sign?
Eye twitching doesn't necessarily lead to facial paralysis. It commonly occurs with overwork, fatigue, and weakened immunity.
However, if you've been significantly run down or your immune system is compromised, getting a checkup is worthwhile.
Preventing Recurrence
- Adequate rest
- Regular meals
- Stress management
- Reduce alcohol and smoking
- Limit greasy and cold foods
Those who've experienced facial paralysis once should be especially mindful of these habits.
In Closing
Facial paralysis requires quick response and combined treatment. Rather than insisting on one approach, the key is treating aggressively in the acute phase and nurturing the body's healing power during recovery.
If you have questions, don't struggle alone—consult a specialist.
Where life blooms—for herbal medicine, trust Dalimchae.
This article was compiled by Dalimchae's medical team based on frequently asked questions in the consultation room.
Medical review | Dalimchae Korean Medicine Clinic, Songdo Branch, Dr. Oh Hyun-min