Where are the acupuncture points for facial paralysis (crooked mouth)?

Under normal circumstances, acupuncture for facial paralysis (crooked mouth) typically targets key acupoints on the face and related meridians. Commonly used points include Dicang (ST4), Jiache (ST6), Hegu (LI4), Yangbai (GB14), and Taiyang (EX-HN5). A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Dicang (ST4): Located on the face, lateral to the corner of the mouth, directly below the pupil. This point is one of the core acupoints for treating crooked mouth. Acupuncture at this site helps unblock facial meridians, regulate qi and blood flow, and improve symptoms such as oral deviation and drooling.

2. Jiache (ST6): Situated in the cheek area, approximately one finger-width above and anterior to the angle of the mandible. When the teeth are clenched, the masseter muscle bulges; upon relaxation, a depression can be felt. Stimulating this point helps relieve facial muscle spasms and improves impaired jaw movement and mouth asymmetry.

3. Hegu (LI4): Belonging to the Large Intestine Meridian of Hand-Yangming, it is located on the dorsum of the hand, at the midpoint of the second metacarpal bone on its radial side. As a commonly used distal point, needling Hegu helps unblock meridians, dispel wind, and resolve exterior patterns. It also supports improved circulation of qi and blood in the face, thereby alleviating symptoms of facial crookedness.

4. Yangbai (GB14): Found on the forehead, directly above the pupil, one cun above the eyebrow. This point regulates the flow of yang energy in the face. Acupuncture here improves conditions caused by meridian blockage, such as incomplete eyelid closure and loss of forehead wrinkles, and assists in correcting mouth deviation.

5. Taiyang (EX-HN5): Located on the head, in the depression about one finger-width posterior to the junction of the lateral end of the eyebrow and the outer canthus. Needling Taiyang helps unblock meridians in the head, promote blood circulation, and remove blood stasis. It is especially suitable for patients with facial crookedness accompanied by headaches, helping to relieve discomfort.

During acupuncture treatment, contraindications and precautions must be carefully observed. Procedures should be performed strictly by qualified medical professionals with precise point localization to ensure both safety and effectiveness.