Physiotherapy for Bell's Palsy

Do you have facial paresis as a result of Bell’s Palsy, Stroke, or another condition? Facial Paresis Physiotherapy may be right for you.

About Facial Paresis Physiotherapy

Facial Paresis is believed to occur when the 7th cranial nerve, known as the facial nerve, is affected. This can be the result of a viral infection, a neurological condition such as stroke, or head trauma. When the facial muscles are partially or fully paralyzed, it becomes difficult to strengthen and retrain them through a traditional approach due to the lack of perceivable movement. NeuroGym® offers a unique approach using state-of-the-art biofeedback technology that allows clients to improve strength and control.

What to Expect

What makes NeuroGym®'s approach unique?

Using the NeuroGym® Trainer gives clients the ability to see a visual representation of their muscle activation in real-time, regardless of whether there is perceivable movement generated. The signals measured through surface electrodes are converted into data, processed by patented algorithms, and used to complete various tasks in the form of computer games. This process promotes neuroplasticity in a motivational and engaging way by reinforcing the neuronal pathways involved in each task.

Specificity and Intensity

The small muscles of the face can be difficult to isolate, especially when motor control and sensation are impaired. The NeuroGym® Trainer employs small surface electrodes, allowing for focus on one muscle group at a time. By playing task-specific games, the client completes a series of high-intensity, speed-sensitive contractions that promote the development of strength and motor control in the muscles targeted.

Synergy

When the facial nerve has been compromised it can be difficult to limit the execution of the movement to the specific muscles that should be involved. This results in an “all-or-nothing” contraction of many or all the facial muscles, occasionally even recruiting muscles down into the neck. The NeuroGym® Trainer can encourage one muscle group, while at the same time, discourage the activity of another, allowing the rehabilitation of facial muscles both individually and in combinations.

Bell's Palsy - Before and After

Conditions and Symptoms

Conditions

Motor Control Symptoms

Sensory Symptoms

Massage Therapy and Facial Paresis

Like many neurological conditions, Facial Paresis can be accompanied by pain and tension in the affected muscles. Massage Therapy can help address these symptoms with short and gentle treatments of the face and neck. Our Registered Massage Therapist, Peng Tan, can help supplement your Physiotherapy treatments through his insight and experience with neurological conditions. 

Request an Assessment

To request an assessment, fill in our form below or call us at (613) 523-9905 and we’ll help you book your appointment.
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Zeinab Garda, MHSc SLP

Speech-Language Pathologist

Zeinab became a Speech-Language Pathologist in order to help patients along on their journey to recovery, striving to help them find quality of life despite any challenges they may be facing. She feels she learns as much about life from them as they learn from her about speech, language, and deglutition.

After obtaining her BA with Honours in Cognitive Sciences of Language at McMaster University and her Masters in Speech and Language Pathology from the University of Ottawa, Zeinab began her career as a Speech-Language Pathologist, practicing in Ontario and Québec, in both private and community settings. Using her knowledge and experience, Zeinab has now launched her own practice: Hummingbird Speech Therapy.

Most recently, Zeinab joined the NeuroGym® team to work with our unique clientele. She brings her experience working with Stroke rehabilitation, neurodegenerative conditions, and swallowing disorders as well as her focus on offering engaging and functional patient-centered care based on clients’ interests and research-based best practices. 

When Zeinab isn’t practicing Speech Therapy, she can be found spending time with her dog, cooking and trying new cuisines, or working on digital art and acrylic paint projects.

Qualifications:

  • BA Cognitive Sciences of Language – McMaster University
  • MHS SLP – University of Ottawa
  • Registered Speech-Language Pathologist – College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists of Ontario and Ordre des orthophonistes et audiologistes du Québec
  • SPEAK OUT!® Certification from the Parkinson Voice Project
  • MoCA Certification

 

Treatment Languages: English, French