Studying Electrical Stimulation to Improve Facial Movement in Adults with Central Facial Palsy After Stroke

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation NMES on improving facial symmetry in people who have central facial palsy caused by stroke. Central facial palsy is a common condition after stroke, affecting about 45% of patients, and can cause facial asymmetry, difficulty closing the mouth, problems with eating, bite marks on the cheek, social isolation, and lower quality of life. This trial aims to compare NMES combined with usual facial palsy training to usual training alone, as there is currently little scientific evidence on the effectiveness of these treatments. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. One group will receive NMES in addition to their usual care, which includes mimical exercises, facio-oral sensory input, and kinesio taping. The other group will receive the usual care without NMES. The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial with a pilot phase, and participants from the pilot will be included in the main trial. The treatments will be administered over a four-week period. During the study, participants will be assessed using tools such as My Facial Quantification MyFacialQ from enrollment to the end of treatment at four weeks. Additional measurements include the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument and Facial Clinimetric Evaluation, with follow-up lasting up to three months after the intervention. The trial will monitor facial symmetry improvements and functional outcomes related to facial palsy. The entire study period extends to December 2030, allowing for long-term observation and data collection.

Effect of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation on Unilateral Central Facial Palsy