Little Needles

One of the things that I've been trying out this past week in an effort to get this Bell's thing under control is acupuncture. I've heard from more than a few people that this has helped with Bell's and I'm willing to try anything that will help. :)

So last Saturday, Blane and J came with me to check out a local acupuncturist, Dr. Lin. My Mother-in-law actually has been to her and given her a thumbs up and so we went to see what she could do. I knew it would be fobby, but I wasn't prepared for the rush of incense that wafted our way after we opened the door. There were the customary jade buddhas and clangy bells that hung on the door. Chinese writing decorated the walls. Welcome to another world!

Dr. Lin was really very nice. Blane and J found out that she speaks not one, two or three, but four languages rather fluently. Impressive! She looked at my face and was concerned but told me that "she could fix it." Great. Let's get this show on the road!

I've never had acupuncture before and didn't know what to expect. She took me to a small room where she had my lie on my back. She then proceeded to cleanse different spots on my body with rubbing alcohol and after doing that, she casually inserted the acupuncture needles where she had cleansed. One on each foot, one on each hand, and about 20 or so on my face. All symmetrical save for the sole needle that she placed in the middle at the top of my head. The needles are tiny (thank goodness) and even though I closed my eyes for the insertion part, I could feel each one as she gently poked them in. I can't say that it didn't hurt, but it wasn't as bad as I'd imagined it to be, so I was thankful for that.

She then placed to heat lamps by each side of my face and she turned the lights off and told me that she would be back in 45 minutes and to "try and relax." Right. I've got 20 something needles sticking out of my and you want me to relax?!? But I did my best. 

I lay there for what seemed like an eternity before she came back in, took the needles out and then proceeded to massage my face. OHMYGOODNESS it hurt so bad on my left side! I must have grimaced because she asked me if it hurt and I squeaked out a "a little." (hugest understatement of my life hah) She then told me not to eat or drink anything cold. She even said to brush my teeth with warm water because the cold is bad for the Bell's. Got it. Lukewarm all the way baby.

I went back yesterday for my second treatment (thanks for coming Mom!) and it actually hurt worse than the first session. She concentrated the needles around my mouth (like cat whiskers) and it's just super sensitive there right now. The massage portion hurt less though so I was thankful for that. Dr. Lin has said that seven or so treatments should do the trick. I'm hopeful. Two down, five to go. The countdown to a symmetrical face begins!

"Shay-Shay"

(thank you in Chinese ;)

Aim