Comparing laser wavelengths to improve facial nerve recovery in Bell's palsy

Different Laser Frequencies on Neuropathic Outcomes in Patients With Bell's Palsy

This trial will test whether three different laser wavelengths, with or without exercises, help adults with unilateral Bell's palsy recover facial movement better than sham treatment.

Quick facts

• Phase: Not applicable
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 80 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years and up
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Kafrelsheikh University (Academic / other)
• Locations: 1 site (Madinah)
• Trial ID: NCT07519421 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This interventional study compares three laser irradiation wavelengths (808 nm, 980 nm, and 1064 nm) and includes sham laser, low-level and high-intensity laser approaches alongside exercise therapy. About 80 adults with unilateral Bell's palsy and House-Brackmann grades II–V will be treated and followed for changes in facial function using the Facial Disability Index and clinical grading. Patients with central nervous system pathology, bilateral or recurrent facial palsy, children, or extreme uncontrolled hypertension are excluded. The treatments are delivered in an outpatient physical therapy setting at King Fahd Hospital in Almadinah Almunawwarah.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Adults (age 18+) with unilateral Bell's palsy referred from neurology, with House-Brackmann levels II–V and no central nervous system disease, are the intended participants.

Not a fit: People with bilateral or recurrent facial palsy, upper motor neuron facial palsy, central nervous system pathology, children under 18, or severe uncontrolled hypertension are excluded and unlikely to benefit from these interventions.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the findings could identify laser settings that speed facial nerve recovery and improve rehabilitation outcomes and quality of life for people with Bell's palsy.

How similar studies have performed: Prior small studies of low-level laser therapy for facial nerve palsy have shown mixed and inconclusive results, so this work builds on but does not yet confirm a proven approach.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Eighty subjects from both genders diagnosed with Bell's palsy will be recruited through direct referrals from their independent physician's neurology department.
2. Subjects aged 18 and above from all genders
3. Unilateral Bell's palsy either on the right or left side.
4. The Facial disability index will be used for assessment and progression of Bell's palsy before and after treatment protocol.
5. Patients will on level II, III, IV and V of House-Brackmann scale.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. We will exclude patients who had central nervous system pathology, sensory loss over the face, or recurrence of facial palsy.
2. Upper motor neuron fascial nerve palsy.
3. Any infant or child (\<18 years).
4. Bilateral Facial nerve palsy
5. Severe hypertension (Blood pressure more than 200/120 mmHg).

Where this trial is running

Madinah

• outpatient clinic, Department of physical therapy at King Fahd Hospital in Almadinah Almunawwarah. — Madinah, Saudi Arabia (Recruiting)

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Ahmed Eid Lafi Aljohani, physical therapist

Conditions Neuropathy, Facial; Bell Palsy; Laser