Question
How effective is acupuncture for treating facial palsy? How many needles do I need to insert?
Answer
Acupuncture is widely recognized as an effective treatment for facial palsy, with approximately 5% of patients experiencing a complete recovery. About 10% of patients may develop additional complications due to individual differences in body. For patients with less severe cases, a complete recovery may be possible without acupuncture. The commonly selected acupoints include Hegu, Taichong, Qianzhengye, Dizhuantouche, Fengchi, Xiaguan, Yingxiang Chengjiang, or Yichengjiang. Three or four acupoints are usually chosen per session. In clinical diagnosis, for patients who recover more slowly, a comprehensive evaluation and treatment combining Western and Chinese medicine is often necessary.