Clinical study of electroacupuncture plus stuck-needle lifting method for intractable facial paralysis

To observe the efficacy of using electroacupuncture (EA) plus stuck-needle lifting method to treat intractable facial paralysis based on the myofascial theory.

Ninety patients with intractable facial paralysis were divided into a control group and an observation group using the random number table method, with 45 cases in each group. The control group was given conventional EA treatment, and the observation group received EA plus the stuck-needle lifting method based on the myofascial theory for 4 consecutive weeks, 6 sessions each week. The electromyographic results, modified Portmann scale (MPS) score, facial nerve function index (FNFI), and total effective rate were compared.

There were no significant differences in the MPS and FNFI scores between the two groups before treatment (P>0.05). After treatment, the total effective rate and FNFI and MPS scores were notably higher in the observation group than in the control group (P<0.05). There were no significant differences in the electromyographic readings between the two groups before the intervention (P>0.05). After the intervention, the observation group had a shorter blink reflex R1 latency and a higher facial nerve compound muscle action potential compared with the control group, and the between-group differences were statistically significant (P<0.05).

EA plus stuck-needle lifting method based on the myofascial theory can enhance treatment efficacy for intractable facial paralysis.