Effect of Electrical Stimulation in Patients with Acute Bell’s Palsy on FGS Score: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Background: Bell’s Palsy is the most common condition affecting the facial nerve. It causes not only facial asymmetry but also great psychological distress. Electrical stimulation is a common intervention for Bell’s Palsy but there is lack of evidences to support its use especially in acute case. The study intends to find if the use of Electrical Stimulation is effective in treating facial dysfunction caused due to Bell’s Palsy in acute phase. Method: A total of 30 subjects who met the inclusion criteria were selected in the experimental study. The subjects were divided into two groups- Experimental Group A (N=15) and Control Group B(N=15) using random sampling. Group A received electrical stimulation, facial massage and guided facial exercise with mirror visual feedback. Group B received similar group A interventions without electrical stimulation. Both Pre and Post treatment Score was calculated using Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. Study duration was of 2 weeks consisting 6 days a week intervention. Result: Paired t-test was performed to see the improvement of facial function in both Group A and Group B. The result showed significant improvement in both the groups. To compare between the groups, independent t-test was done and the results showed improvements in the Group A were significantly higher when compared to Group B. Conclusion: The use of electrical stimulation in the subjects with acute Bell’s Palsy is significantly effective in improving facial function of the subjects