Core Pathogenesis and Medication Approach for Treating Peripheral Facial Paralysis Based on the Theory of Fundamental Qi Disorder

Abstract

Peripheral facial paralysis (PFP), also known as idiopathic facial nerve palsy or Bell’s palsy, is a common neurological disorder in clinical practice. Its core clinical manifestation is the sudden paralysis of the unilateral facial expression muscles. Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) generally classifies this condition under the category of “wry mouth” (kou pi), and the primary clinical treatment often involves dispelling wind and unblocking the collaterals. However, in actual practice, it has been observed that relying solely on the method of dispelling wind and unblocking collaterals often yields unsatisfactory results. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the core pathogenesis of peripheral facial paralysis and aims to offer a new theoretical perspective and clinical rationale for TCM syndrome differentiation and treatment of peripheral facial paralysis, thereby helping to improve clinical therapeutic outcomes.