Mindfulness for Facial Palsy
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether mindfulness techniques can improve emotional well-being and muscle control issues, such as synkinesis (unwanted facial movements), in individuals with non-flaccid facial paralysis. Participants will either engage in mindfulness sessions or continue with their standard care to determine if mindfulness makes a difference. Suitable candidates have experienced non-flaccid facial paralysis from conditions like Bell's Palsy or Lyme disease for at least 8 months and have not used physical therapy or treatments like Botox. As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to explore innovative approaches to managing facial paralysis symptoms.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that mindfulness techniques are safe for individuals with facial paralysis?
Research shows that mindfulness techniques are generally safe for participants. As a non-medication treatment, mindfulness often results in fewer side effects. Studies have found that mindfulness can reduce anxiety and depression and improve body image. These outcomes benefit those with facial paralysis. Since mindfulness is widely used for stress and mental health issues, its safety is well-established. Participants in mindfulness sessions typically feel comfortable and tolerate them well. No major negative effects have been reported in treatments for facial paralysis.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Unlike the standard treatments for facial palsy, which often include physical therapy and sometimes surgery, mindfulness sessions offer a unique, non-invasive approach. Researchers are excited about this method because mindfulness can potentially enhance emotional well-being and reduce stress, factors that may influence recovery from facial palsy. By incorporating mindfulness into the treatment regimen, there is hope that patients might experience improved outcomes alongside traditional physical therapy.
What evidence suggests that mindfulness could be effective for facial palsy?
This trial will compare the effects of mindfulness sessions with standard care for individuals with facial palsy. Studies have shown that mindfulness can reduce symptoms like anxiety and depression. These benefits may also improve mental well-being and self-perception in people with facial palsy. Mindfulness involves paying attention to the present moment, which can help manage stress and emotional challenges. Although little research specifically addresses mindfulness for synkinesis (uncontrolled facial movements), mindfulness has effectively promoted relaxation, which might help manage these movements. Overall, mindfulness shows promise for improving emotional health and could benefit those with facial paralysis.16789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Katherine Gossett, MD
Principal Investigator
Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals who have had non-flaccid facial paralysis for at least 8 months due to Bell's Palsy, Ramsay Hunt syndrome, Lyme disease, or after surgery for an acoustic neuroma. People with a history of cancer, facial surgery, or those who've received botox or physical therapy for their paralysis cannot participate.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either standard physical therapy or physical therapy with mindfulness sessions for 8 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Mindfulness
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Lead Sponsor