Long-Term Facial Muscle Weakness: Which Specialist Should You See?

Q: Long-Term Facial Muscle Weakness: Which Specialist Should You See?

Hello： Your symptoms can be summarized as sensory abnormalities in the right side of your back, right shoulder, right side of your neck, right side of your face, and right eye, along with abnormal movements of the right eye. <br>I personally believe this may be related to a neuro

If you are experiencing long-term facial muscle weakness, you should consult a neurologist?

Hello, doctor.
I've loved using computers since I was young, and my improper posture has led to stiffness in my right shoulder and upper back.
I used to experience numbness frequently, which has resulted in a lack of sensation in the skin over the back of my neck and shoulder for several years.
The main issue is that I can noticeably feel swelling along the entire right side of my neck.
My right eyebrow and eyelid feel weak or numb, and the muscles around my right eye are also affected.
I often find my gaze drifting, causing double vision, which leads to some unusual movements, such as raising my eyebrows or looking upward.
This often makes others feel uncomfortable.
I can clearly feel that the muscles around my right eye are tighter, and an ophthalmologist once mentioned that my eye muscles are too tense.
I believe this is all related to the issues in my right upper neck and back.
These problems have been bothering me for several years.
Which specialist should I consult?

Luo, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/06/06

Dr. Lin Zhebin reply Family Medicine

Hello: Your symptoms can be summarized as sensory abnormalities in the right side of your back, right shoulder, right side of your neck, right side of your face, and right eye, along with abnormal movements of the right eye.
I personally believe this may be related to a neurological issue, so I recommend that you consult a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2022/06/06

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you are experiencing a complex interplay of symptoms that may involve both neurological and musculoskeletal issues. Given the long-term nature of your symptoms, including facial muscle weakness, numbness, and discomfort in your neck and shoulder areas, it would be advisable to consult with a few different specialists to get a comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

1. Neurologist: Since you are experiencing facial muscle weakness and numbness, a neurologist would be an essential first step. They can assess for any underlying neurological conditions that may be contributing to your symptoms, such as facial nerve disorders, cervical radiculopathy, or even conditions like multiple sclerosis. They may perform imaging studies, such as an MRI, and nerve conduction studies to evaluate the function of your nerves and muscles.

2. Orthopedic Specialist or Physiatrist: Given your history of poor posture and the resulting musculoskeletal issues, seeing an orthopedic specialist or a physiatrist (a doctor specializing in physical medicine and rehabilitation) could be beneficial. They can evaluate your neck and shoulder alignment, assess for any structural issues, and recommend physical therapy or other interventions to improve your posture and alleviate muscle tension.

3. Physical Therapist: A physical therapist can work with you to develop a tailored exercise program that focuses on strengthening your neck and shoulder muscles, improving your posture, and enhancing flexibility. They can also provide manual therapy techniques to relieve tightness and discomfort in your muscles.

4. Ophthalmologist or Optometrist: Since you mentioned issues with your eye muscles and visual disturbances, it may also be helpful to consult with an eye specialist. They can assess your eye muscle function and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed, such as strabismus or other ocular motility disorders.

5. Chiropractor: If you are open to alternative therapies, a chiropractor might help with spinal alignment and muscle tension in your neck and back. They can provide adjustments and recommend exercises to improve your overall posture and reduce discomfort.

In summary, your symptoms suggest a multifaceted issue that may require a collaborative approach involving various specialists. Start with a neurologist to rule out any serious neurological conditions, and then consider consulting with an orthopedic specialist or physical therapist to address your musculoskeletal concerns. Additionally, keep an eye on your visual symptoms and consult an eye specialist if necessary. This comprehensive approach will help you identify the root causes of your symptoms and develop an effective treatment plan to improve your quality of life.

Similar Q&A

Which Specialist to See for Facial Numbness and Tremors?

I would like to ask the doctor, I have been experiencing long-term numbness in my mouth and involuntary twitching on one side of my face (cheek, lower eyelid, eyebrow, either the left or right side). Which specialty should I consult? Is there a way to treat this condition compreh...

Dr. Xiao Yongxun reply Family Medicine
Dear Mr. Ed: Involuntary twitching or tingling sensations in the face, eyelids, or eyebrows can be associated with a variety of conditions. Common considerations include spasms, peripheral neuropathy, peripheral vascular disease, metabolic disorders, autoimmune diseases, and ne...

Which Medical Specialty Should I See for Facial Nerve Paralysis?

Hello: I had a history of facial nerve paralysis six or seven years ago and received treatment at the ENT department of Cheng Kung University Hospital (specialized in facial nerve paralysis). Recently, I have been experiencing involuntary tearing from my right eye, and occasional...

Dr. Lin Zhengyan reply Diving Medicine
Hello Peter: You can consult the Neurology Department or the Facial Nerve Paralysis Clinic at National Cheng Kung University Hospital. If it is confirmed to be facial nerve paralysis, hyperbaric oxygen therapy has auxiliary therapeutic effects (Tainan Chi Mei Medical Center Hyper...

Facial Nerve Disorders: Recovery Tips and Massage Techniques

Hello Doctor: Last year at the end of the year, I was diagnosed with facial nerve dysfunction after an examination. It has been over three months now, and I am slowly recovering. However, I am afraid of potential long-term effects (I had a similar issue three years ago and did no...

Dr. Ye Boshou reply Neurology
If the facial nerve in the face has recovered, there is no need to worry.

Understanding Facial Nerve Paralysis: Treatment and Recovery Insights

Hello Doctor, two weeks ago I noticed symptoms of left facial nerve paralysis: I cannot close my eye, my mouth cannot open, my face cannot move, and sounds in my ear are excessively loud. A neurologist prescribed steroids and also performed acupuncture and electrical therapy. Cur...

Dr. Jiang Junyi reply Neurology
Hello, Sir: You mentioned that facial nerve paralysis affects hearing. This is because the stapedius muscle, which is responsible for stabilizing the stapes bone, is innervated by the facial nerve. Recovery of symptoms requires nerve regeneration, unlike facial muscles that can i...