What is Mime Therapy
Mime therapy, also known as facial retraining or facial exercise therapy, is a non-invasive and cost-effective treatment option for individuals suffering from facial nerve disorders. This therapy aims to improve muscle tone, facial symmetry, and overall facial expression through a series of specialised exercises and techniques. Mime therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals with facial paralysis, Bell’s palsy, or other conditions affecting the facial nerve.
Is mime therapy effective?
In 1974, Pieter de Vriese (ENT surgeon) and Jan Bronk (mime actor) from Amsterdam, The Netherlands, developed Mime therapy. In 2003, the first randomised control study on Mime therapy was completed in Nijmegen, The Netherlands, by Carien Beurskens, Peter Heymans and co-workers. They showed that Mime therapy effectively alleviates sequelae in patients with longstanding facial nerve paresis. It induces substantial improvement in the functioning level, the disability level and the health level of patients. (International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health of the WHO). The benefit is also stable over time.
The impact of facial nerve disorders
Facial nerve disorders can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life, as the face plays a crucial role in communication, expression, and social interaction. Patients with these conditions often experience difficulties with speaking, eating, drinking, and emotional expression, leading to feelings of self-consciousness and isolation. In severe cases, facial nerve disorders can also affect the function of the eye, leading to complications such as dry eye, corneal damage, and vision impairment.
How does mime therapy work?
Mime therapy is designed to address these challenges by targeting the underlying muscle weakness, asymmetry, and loss of coordination that often accompany facial nerve disorders.
The therapy involves a combination of exercises, massage, stretching, and relaxation techniques to restore normal muscle function, improve facial mobility, and enhance facial expression. By engaging in regular mime therapy sessions, patients can gradually regain control of their facial muscles, rebuild strength and coordination, and restore symmetry and balance to their facial expressions.
Mime therapy is an individualised approach
One of the key benefits of mime therapy is that it can be tailored to each individual patient’s specific needs and goals. A qualified therapist will thoroughly assess the patient’s condition, evaluate their range of motion, muscle strength, and facial symmetry, and develop a personalised treatment plan to address their unique concerns. The therapy may involve a variety of exercises targeting specific muscle groups, such as smiling, frowning, blinking, and chewing, as well as relaxation techniques to reduce muscle tension and improve overall facial function.
Facial nerve sensory re-education
In addition to physical exercises, mime therapy may also include sensory re-education techniques to help patients regain awareness and control of their facial muscles. Patients may be guided through activities such as touching, tapping, and massaging different areas of the face to improve sensory feedback and enhance motor coordination. By increasing proprioception and kinesthetic awareness, patients can optimise the effectiveness of their facial exercises and improve their overall facial rehabilitation outcomes.
Facial nerve biofeedback
Another important component of mime therapy is incorporating biofeedback technology to monitor and track patients progress throughout their treatment. Patients can monitor their muscle contractions, coordination, and strength during therapy sessions using specialised devices that provide real-time feedback on muscle activity. This allows patients to actively participate in their rehabilitation process, self-monitor their progress, and adjust their exercise routines as needed to achieve optimal results.
Mime therapy and emotional well-being
Furthermore, mime therapy can also help patients improve their emotional and psychological well-being by promoting a positive self-image, boosting self-confidence, and reducing anxiety and depression associated with facial nerve disorders. By enhancing facial expression and communication skills, patients can regain control over their appearance and social interactions, improving their quality of life and overall satisfaction.
How do the mime therapy appointments work?
The first appointment should ideally be scheduled six weeks after the onset of facial nerve paralysis. Even patients with stable paresis lasting longer than nine months can benefit from mim therapy, as was demonstrated in the Nijmegen study. The initial treatment is usually conducted over ten sessions, whereafter the patient continues with a home program