How Stimpod Therapy Can Support Recovery from Bell`s Palsy

How Stimpod Therapy Can Support Recovery from Bell`s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy is a sudden, distressing condition that causes weakness or paralysis on one side of the face. It happens when the facial nerve (the seventh cranial nerve) becomes inflamed or irritated, disrupting the signals that control facial muscles. This can lead to difficulty smiling, blinking, or closing the eye, as well as changes in facial expression and even altered taste or sensitivity to sound.

While many people recover naturally within weeks or months, others experience lingering weakness, muscle tightness, or incomplete movement. Stimpod therapy, a non-invasive neuromodulation treatment, is an increasingly popular option to support faster and more complete recovery.

What Is Stimpod Therapy?

Stimpod therapy uses a unique pulsed radio-frequency waveform designed to stimulate nerves and help them “reset” their communication pathways. Unlike simple electrical stimulation devices, the Stimpod works directly on the nerve axon (a microscopic, wire-like "cable" or "tail" that extends from a nerve cell's main body. Its primary job is to carry electrical messages away from the cell body and transmit that information to other nerve cells, muscles, or glands), helping improve nerve conduction, reduce inflammation, and support natural healing.

It is safe, comfortable, and completely non-invasive making it a strong option for facial nerve rehabilitation.

Why Stimpod Therapy Works for Bell’s Palsy

Bell’s Palsy primarily affects the facial nerve, and Stimpod therapy is specifically designed to target nerves that are injured, irritated, or not functioning normally. Its goal is to encourage healthier signalling between the brain and facial muscles.

Here’s how it supports recovery:

1. Stimulating the Facial Nerve: When the facial nerve is inflamed, its ability to send signals becomes reduced. Stimpod therapy gently stimulates the nerve using its specialised waveform, helping restore proper conduction. This can speed up the return of movement and improve muscle coordination.

2. Reducing Facial Muscle Tightness: As the facial nerve begins to heal, some people develop synkinesis—where muscles contract involuntarily during certain movements. Others may experience tightness, twitching, or spasms. Stimpod therapy helps calm these abnormal nerve signals, improving muscle relaxation and reducing unwanted movement patterns.

3. Supporting Symmetry and Muscle Activation: Because Bell’s Palsy affects only one side of the face, helping the affected muscles activate correctly is essential for symmetry. Stimpod therapy improves neuromuscular communication, encouraging smoother, more coordinated facial movements.

4. Enhancing Overall Nerve Healing: The Stimpod’s pulsed radio-frequency stimulation can help reduce nerve irritation and support natural recovery processes. Many of our clients have reported faster return of facial function and improved confidence as their facial expressions become more balanced.

What to Expect from a Stimpod Session

A typical session lasts 10–20 minutes. Our highly trained Relive Physiotherapist will place small electrodes on specific points along the facial nerve pathway usually around the jawline, cheek, or near the ear. The sensation feels like gentle tapping or pulsing and is generally very comfortable.

Some people notice improvements immediately after treatment, such as easier blinking or slight increases in facial movement. Others experience steady progress over multiple sessions as the nerve continues to heal.

Stimpod therapy can be safely combined with facial exercises, physiotherapy, massage, or medical treatment prescribed by a clinician.

A Supportive Option for Bell’s Palsy Recovery

Bell’s Palsy can be unsettling, affecting not only facial function but also self-confidence. Stimpod therapy offers a gentle, targeted approach to supporting nerve recovery, improving muscle activation, and reducing abnormal movement patterns. For many, it becomes a valuable part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.