One of our contributors has kindly shared this tip to help with facial droop:
Try pressing your tongue very firmly to the inside of your cheek on the side that is drooping. Then while you are pressing your tongue inside your cheek, move it upwards and downwards. Then repeat this time moving your tongue side-to-side in each direction.
This will help your brain to recognise and remap the drooping parts of your face and remind the muscles how to work correctly. This should ease the degree of facial droop.
Other things to try include:
Laughing! Laughing uses multiple muscles in the face, and improves blood circulation to the facial nerves. Watch a good, funny movie; spend time with loved ones and friends who bring out the giggles. Not only is laughter good for your brain and body, but it will give your face exercise to overcome facial droop.
Mouth Stretches. You might feel a little silly, but simply opening and closing your mouth repeatedly will work the muscles of your face.
Eyebrow Stretches. Again, you might feel a bit awkward, but raising and lowering your eyebrows will improve movement and blood circulation to your forehead and around your eyes. Start by doing these movements for a few minutes twice a day, and gradually increase your repetitions.
Lip Movements. Move your lips in different directions. Move your mouth from side to side, up and down, smiling, and in a “kissing pout.” These movements will help your facial muscles regain strength, and because they are natural movements, they can help to promote reactions to the brain.
If you have an exercise or tip that helps you with facial droop, drop us a line at [email protected].
