Kathya P. Navarro-Arias, Departamento de Fisioterapia Neurológica, Clínica de Fisioterapia, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, UNAM, León, Gto., México
Jesús E. Barrera-Reséndiz, Departamento de Fisioterapia Neurológica, Clínica de Fisioterapia, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, UNAM, León, Gto., México
Aline C. Cintra-Viveiro, Departamento de Fisioterapia Neurológica, Clínica de Fisioterapia, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, UNAM, León, Gto., México
Carlos R. Palma-Reyes, Departamento de Fisioterapia Neurológica, Clínica de Fisioterapia, Escuela Nacional de Estudios Superiores Unidad León, UNAM, León, Gto., México
Peripheral facial palsy is a mononeuropathy that leads to a decrease or complete loss of nerve conduction to the facial muscles. Currently, various physiotherapeutic modalities are described; however, the evidence supporting their effectiveness remains unclear. Therefore, the purpose of this case series was to describe the changes in facial function following the application of a proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) protocol. This case series was conducted with six patients with acute peripheral facial paralysis. Therapeutic goals were established in three stages according to facial function. The Sunnybrook scale and a quantitative evaluation were used to assess mobility, facial symmetry, and the presence of synkinesis. The proposed intervention reported positive changes in the recovery of facial function, with observed reductions in resting asymmetry, increased mobility, and decreased synkinesis.
Keywords: Peripheral facial palsy. Kabat??s technique. Physiotherapy. Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation.