Scholar Spark Physical Therapy

Lyme Disease and Facial Palsy : Understanding the Connection Lyme disease, caused by the spirochete bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and transmitted through the bite of infected black-legged ticks, is known for its diverse range of symptoms and potential complications. One significant complication that can arise from Lyme disease is facial palsy, a condition characterized by the weakness or paralysis of the facial muscles. To fully comprehend this connection, it's essential to delve into the details of Lyme disease, how it affects the facial nerve, and the clinical implications of Lyme-related facial palsy. The Pathogenesis of Lyme Disease: Lyme disease begins with the bite of an infected tick, typically the black-legged tick (Ixodes scapularis or Ixodes pacificus) in North America. These ticks harbor the Borrelia burgdorferi bacterium, which can be transmitted to humans during a blood meal. Once inside the body, the bacterium begins to disseminate through the bloodstream and tissues