# Physiotherapy Management of Bell's Palsy in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report

## TL;DR

This case report shows how physiotherapy helped an elderly man recover from Bell's palsy, improving facial function and muscle tone.

## Contribution

The paper presents a novel case of successful physiotherapy intervention for an elderly patient with Bell’s palsy.

## Key findings

- The patient's House-Brackmann score improved from grade IV to III.
- Facial symmetry and muscle tone significantly improved with physiotherapy.
- Functional abilities like drinking and chewing were regained.

## Abstract

Bell’s palsy is a sudden-onset, unilateral facial paralysis most commonly regarded as idiopathic in origin. This case report discusses the physiotherapy management of a 75-year-old male with idiopathic Bell’s palsy. A structured physiotherapy regimen involving electrical stimulation, Kinesio taping, massage, and facial exercises was administered. Improvements were observed as the patient’s House-Brackmann score progressed from grade IV to III. Facial symmetry improved significantly, and muscle tone progressed from hypotonia to normotonia. Functional recovery, including the regained ability to drink water from a cup, along with notable improvements in oral motor functions such as chewing and articulation. Early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach combining medical and physiotherapy management facilitated recovery.