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.

Request Appointment

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

  • Assessment of the facial muscles
  • Enhanced therapy using our patented NeuroGym® Trainer (state-of-the-art biofeedback technology)
  • Short, efficient, and targeted 30-minute treatment sessions
  • Recommendations for at-home exercises

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.

Request Appointment >

Bell's Palsy - Before and After

Conditions and Symptoms

Conditions

  • Bell's Palsy
  • Stroke
  • Ramsay Hunt Syndrome
  • Myasthenia Gravis
  • Brain Tumor, Trauma, or Surgery

Motor Control Symptoms

  • Facial Drooping
  • Asymmetrical Expressions
  • Involuntary Facial Movements
  • Drooling
  • Impaired Speech

Sensory Symptoms

  • Pain and Tension
  • Dry Mouth and Eyes
  • Facial Skin Sensitivity
  • Altered Taste and Smell
  • Ear Pain and Tinnitus

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. 

Book a 30 minute Massage >

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.
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
Name(Required)
Stay up-to-date on our COVID-19 Protocols
Mise à jour COVID-19

Radinka Jeyathas RSSW, RSW

Registered Social Worker

Radinka is a Registered Social Worker and the founder and head clinician of Make a Move Life Counselling.  She has over 10 years of experience providing therapeutic services in community and private practice across Ontario as a Canadian-Sri Lankan Tamil.

Radinka’s therapeutic approach is to (re)connect you to your mind to see, hear, and express your thinking patterns to create healthy interruptions and invest growth that will improve your perspective and transform your relationship with your body.

Qualifications: 

  • Social Service Worker Diploma – Seneca Polytechnic (2014)
  • BSW in Social Work – Toronto Metropolitan University (2021)
  • Dual Registrant – Social Service Work and Social Work Registrant – Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers

Peng Tan, R.Kin, R.M.T

Kinesiologist, Registered Massage Therapist

Peng entered the field of rehabilitation without any clear direction, initially choosing it out interest rather than passion. Over the course of his studies and practice he discovered a career path supporting individuals on their journeys toward good health and well-being.

After completing his BSc in Human Kinetics at the University of Ottawa and working as a Personal Trainer and Kinesiologist, Peng decided to expand his practice by studying Massage Therapy at the International Academy of Applied Health. He now maintains dual disciplines and is continuing his academic journey while practicing, presently pursuing his Master’s in Psychology, Diploma in Acupuncture, and Diploma in Osteopathy.

Peng takes a holistic approach to therapy, combining his knowledge of kinesiology and massage therapy to create treatments that address both the physical and mental aspects of well-being. He enjoys enhancing his skills and actively seeks out innovative approaches and incorporates new techniques into his treatments. Peng prides himself on providing personalized and effective treatments that make a positive and practical impact on the individual’s well-being.

When Peng isn’t working or studying, he can be found playing volleyball, bouldering, solving puzzles, or learning woodworking. At home, he enjoys the company of his three cats, cherishing the moments of happiness they bring.

Qualifications:

  • BSc in Human Kinetics – University of Ottawa (2019)
  • Massage Therapy – International Academy of Applied Health (2022)
  • Kinesiology (Continuing Education) – Laurentian University (2021)
  • Registered Massage Therapist – College of Massage Therapists of Ontario
  • Registered Kinesiologist – College of Kinesiologists of Ontario
  • Manual Lymphatic Drainage Level 1 course from The Dr. Vodder School – International
  • Community Multi-Sport course from the National Coaching Certification Program

Sara Seaman, MScPT

Physiotherapist, Pelvic Health Physiotherapist

Sara became a physiotherapist to help people achieve a healthier and more active lifestyle. She has a passion for helping individuals regain abilities they’ve lost and participate in activities they’ve been unable to due to neurological injuries or conditions.

After obtaining her BSc in Human Kinetics at St. Francis Xavier University in Nova Scotia, Sara traveled even further to complete her Master’s of Physical Therapy at the University of Limerick in Ireland. Despite loving to travel, Sara is an Ottawa native and ultimately decided to come back home to begin her career. After joining NeuroGym® in 2021, Sara has thrived in the field of neurorehabilitation, applying her knowledge and skills to a diverse clientele.

Sara’s active approach to therapy and focus on working towards improved abilities and independence aligns itself well with NeuroGym®’s movement enabling methodology. Using her education and experience, Sara develops individualized treatment plans and provides education for each client based on their specific goals and abilities.

Most recently, Sara completed The Physical Therapy Approach to Female Urinary Incontinence course from the Canadian Pelvic Health Academy and is now doing Pelvic Floor Physiotherapy for female patients.

When Sara isn’t at the clinic, she can be found travelling, hiking, skiing, and spending time with family, friends, and her dog Maggie.

Qualifications:

  • BSc in Human Kinetics – St. Francis Xavier University (2018)
  • MSc PT – University of Limerick (2021)
  • Registered Physiotherapist – College of Physiotherapist’s of Ontario
  • The Physical Therapy Approach to Female Urinary Incontinence course from the Canadian Pelvic Health Academy

Avi Nativ, PhD BScPT

Owner, Founder

The NeuroGym® concept was founded over 30 years ago by Avi Nativ PhD (Kinesiology), BScPT. Avi received his doctoral degree in Kinesiology from the University of Waterloo, and was a registered physiotherapist in Ontario for more than 25 years. While doing his doctoral and post-doctoral research work, Avi’s focus was on brain organization, plasticity and rehabilitation.

Avi was intrigued with scientific research findings that indicated the remarkable capacity of the brain to adapt after injury, and envisioned how such plastic changes could be encouraged through inventive ways of enabling more patient-initiated, active movement rather than the more conventional passive therapy approaches. Through rigorous research, he developed a line of custom, patented equipment and an evidence-based, active approach which combined have been providing amazing opportunities for those with neurologic injuries (even years post-acute) to continue to improve their motor skills.