Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation is an advanced training service in Calgary
Facial Neuromuscular Retraining is a technique used to rehabilitate the face following injury to the 7th Cranial Nerve (“Facial Nerve”). FNMR therapy at Panther Sports Medicine is provided by a licensed Physical Therapist who is specially trained and experienced in assessing, treating and educating patients with facial palsy concerns.
Who Can Benefit From Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation?
If you experience one or more of the following symptoms, you may benefit from Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation:
• Inability to move one side of the face • Inability to close the affected eye • Difficulty eating, drinking and speaking due to the lips and cheek not moving well • Facial tightness and discomfort • Poor control of facial expressions • Synkinesis ( involuntary co-contraction of facial muscles)
An actively licensed and practicing Physical Therapist in Alberta, with 30 years of experience. She continues to work with clients with a Neurological diagnosis.
In 2014, Kristin received her advanced training for FNMR to also become a trained Facial Therapist. In addition to her Neurologic clients, Kristin assesses and treats clients with facial palsy on a regular basis. She has treated people with Bell’s Palsy, Ramsay- Hunt Syndrome, bilateral facial palsy, post surgical reanimation, among other diagnoses.
Kristin has completed many FNMR courses, including international courses with Facial Therapy Specialists International. She has received her education and mentorship from internationally recognized facial therapy experts Susan Rankin (PT) and Jackie Diels (OT) and Pauline Dueck (PT). Kristin also works with Dr. Christiaan Schrag, Plastic Surgeon, at the Calgary Facial Nerve Clinic.
Kristin joined Susan Rankin as co- instructor for the Calgary Introductory and Advanced FNMR training courses in 2019. She will also be instructing at the upcoming Calgary FNMR training course in 2024.
Kristin has a strong passion for treating clients with facial palsy. It is her goal to provide each client with individualized exercises and education to confidently manage their facial condition. It is also her hope that more people become aware of this type of therapy and how it can help those living with facial palsy.
Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation appointments can be booked by calling the clinic directly
How Our Therapists Can Help with Facial Pain and Paralysis...
Common Conditions That Benefit From Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation:
Bell’s Palsy
Ramsay-Hunt Syndrome
Acoustic Neuroma (post surgery)
Post facial reanimation procedures
Chronic facial palsy (with synkinesis
Other causes of CN VII palsy
Other facial palsy including stroke and brain injury (“Central Palsy”)
What To Expect During Your Visit
This therapy has been used for assessment and treatment for facial palsy since the 1980’s. FNMR therapy at Panther Sports Medicine is provided by a licensed Physical Therapist who has advanced training and expertise in assessing, treating and educating patients with facial palsy concerns. Techniques used are geared towards teaching self-management of the facial condition. A typical customized home program would consist of stretches, active movements, and individualized strategies. Therapy is available for people who have new, resolving or chronic facial palsies.
On your visit you can expect: Detailed patient history.
Specific education regarding facial palsy and function.
Detailed assessment of facial symmetry
Detailed assessment of active facial movement, expression and function.
Individualized recommendations for home exercises and activities.
Patient-centered goals.
Facial Neuromuscular Rehabilitation appointments can be booked by calling the clinic directly
The goal of our therapists is to get you back to activities, sports and daily enjoyment!
Every treatment plan is personalized to you and your needs.Treatment options could include exercises, electronic monitoring and manual treatment of the muscles. You will likely get exercises to do at home to help train your muscles. Our therapists will also give you advice about daily activities and fitness, as well as tips for good bladder and bowel habits.
10 Convenient Locations in Calgary. All Physiotherapy clinics have morning and evening appointments available to meet the demands of your busy schedule. Saturday appointments are available at select locations.
Panther Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation Centres are a network of ten clinics, physiotherapist operated, serving Calgary and surrounding areas. Our team offers a wide range of services including physiotherapy, massage therapy, and sports injury rehabilitation to help our clients reduce pain and recover from injuries. Panther Sports Medicine has been proudly serving our community for over 30 years.
