Combined neural mobilization with proprioceptive therapy for Bell’s palsy facial symmetry
Official title: Combined Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) and Neural Mobilization on Improving Facial Symmetry in Patients With Bells Palsy
Run by Foundation University Islamabad · NCT07758543 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized trial tests whether adding neural mobilization to proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation helps improve facial symmetry in people with Bell’s palsy.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 15 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 38 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Foundation University Islamabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Islamabad) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 14, 2025 |
| Main results expected | December 10, 2026 |
| Study ends | January 10, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07758543 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults and adolescents aged 15–60 with moderate to severe Bell’s palsy in the acute or subacute phase (within 6 months of onset) who have not undergone other rehabilitation.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with recurrent Bell’s palsy, other neurological disorders, or conditions contraindicating electrical stimulation may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial compares two rehabilitation approaches for Bell’s palsy: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) alone versus PNF plus neural mobilization. Participants are assessed for facial symmetry and motor function at baseline and after four weeks using the House–Brackmann scale and the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. The study plans 36 participants at a single site in Islamabad, with sessions three times a week for four weeks. Data will be analyzed with SPSS to determine if the combination therapy provides superior outcomes over PNF alone.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the combined therapy could offer patients a more effective rehabilitation approach to restore facial symmetry and function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work shows beneficial effects of individual rehabilitation techniques; this study explores a novel combination whose effectiveness is yet to be proven.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 15-60 years. * Both male and female. * Patient diagnosed with bells palsy by neurologist or relevant specialist. * Patients with moderate to severe Bell's palsy evaluated by Modified House-Brackman SCALE * Patient without exposure to any other rehabilitation program * Patients within the acute or subacute phases (within 6 months of onset) Exclusion Criteria: * Patients with a history of recurrent Bell's palsy or other neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, multiple sclerosis) * Patients with pacemakers, metal implants or other contraindications for electrical muscle stimulation. * Presence of facial trauma or surgical interventions that might interfere with rehabilitation outcomes. * Co-existing medical conditions (e.g., diabetes mellitus, infections, or malignancies) that might impair nerve recovery or affect study outcomes
Where it's running
-
Foundation University College of Physical Therapy
Islamabad, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Mahnoor Azhar, DPT
- Email: mahnoorazhar707@gmail.com
- Phone: +92 3175868174
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.