Football And Facial Nerve Damage

College and fall football season is upon us. For many, the wait for it to arrive seemed endless. On August 25, 2018 the doors swung open for college players and spectators alike. On December 8, 2018 the doors will close and we all will have to wait until next year for the thrill of the game to return back to us.

Sadly, there are times when the thrill of the football game causes serious injury to the players. The NCAA reported that there were 8.1 injuries per 1,000 athlete exposures and that football players are almost seven times more likely to be injured during a game than in practice.

Facial nerve damage can be caused for a variety of reasons.

1. Infection
2. Trauma
3. Bell’s Palsy
4. Tumors
5. Stroke

A blunt injury in a sport such as football may cause a temporal bone fracture and a facial nerve damage or palsy. If your facial nerve is damaged it will compromise your ability to make facial expressions, numbness, twitching, dry or tearing eye and your sense of taste may be altered.

If you or your child is involved in fall football, it’s important to take steps to prevent injuries from happening. Always wear the protective gear required. Ensure that the coach adheres to the rules of the game and has control over unnecessary roughness. Novice players should be properly instructed on safe play.

If you or a family member suffers from facial nerve damage for any reason, contact Dr. O to schedule an appointment and learn about treatment for facial nerve damage.