Photobiomodulation Therapy in Bell´s Palsy: A Case Report
Kenya Couto Ferreira Cateb
Biophotonics Medicine Postgraduate Program, Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
Marcela Marçal Thebit
Postgraduation Program in Orofacial Harmonization, Centro de Especialização e Treinamento em Odontologia/CETRO, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Allyson Henrique de Andrade Fonseca
Postgraduation Program in Orofacial Harmonization, Centro de Especialização e Treinamento em Odontologia/CETRO, Belo Horizonte, Brazil.
Ricardo Scarparo Navarro
Postgraduation Program in Bioengineering, Universidade Brasil, Sâo Paulo, Brazil.
Christiane Pavani
*
Biophotonics Medicine Postgraduate Program, Universidade Nove de Julho, São Paulo, Brazil.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Aims: The primary concern for patients with Bell's palsy is the impact on their ability to express facial emotions, which significantly affects well-being and self-esteem. Facial expressions are essential for social connections, and the growing use of online work tools and social networks amplifies their importance.
Study Design: Case Report.
Methodology: Red photobiomodulation (PBM, 660 nm ± 10 nm) was applied to the temporal, zygomatic, mandibular, and cervical regions (2 J per point, 2 points per region), while infrared PBM (808 nm ± 10 nm) was administered to the temporal, supra-auricular, submandibular, and posterior cervical ganglia regions (2 J per point, 2 points per region). A total of 10 points were treated with red PBM and 8 with infrared PBM.
Results: This case report describes the successful use of a four-sessions PBM protocol with red and infrared lasers on facial regions affected by Bell's palsy, leading to notable improvements in smile symmetry, eyebrow movement, and eye closure. Since the first session, patient presented visible improvements in smile, eyebrow arching and eye closure.
Conclusion: These results suggest that PBM may be an effective tool for managing facial paralysis, offering patients a non-invasive treatment option with minimal adverse effects. Further clinical trials are recommended to explore its broader therapeutic potential.
Keywords: Photobiomodulation, bell's palsy, facial expressions, facial paralysis