The Foundation for Facial Recovery

Educates healthcare providers, patients, and the public about effective treatments for facial palsy and TMD disorders. 

Bell's Palsy: Did you know?

Facial paralysis from Bell’s palsy and its more severe “cousin,” Ramsay Hunt Syndrome, is thought to be caused by the reactivation of the viruses behind chicken pox and shingles, respectively. It strikes suddenly with no regard for age, gender or socioeconomic status.

Each year, Bell’s palsy renders some 40,000 people with debilitating facial deformity, impaired ability to see, hear, speak and eat, and significant social distress. More than a million of those afflicted are searching for treatment—often in vain—at any given time.

Research on Bell’s palsy has been scarce, and most healthcare providers don’t know how to help. For too long, newly diagnosed patients have been told their only hope is to “wait and see if it gets better.”

This is no longer the case!

At the Foundation for Facial Recovery, we work with a committed team of facial palsy physical therapists, facial plastic surgeons, neurologists and other specialists who are changing the treatment landscape. We channel their innovations, along with expert findings from around the world, into educational initiatives for patients and physicians alike.

With proper care, a diagnosis of sudden facial palsy can look far different than it used to. We’re holding up a mirror to show everyone how.

Straight Talk on TMD

Temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is a condition characterized by pain in the jaw joint and/or surrounding tissues. Because the exact cause and symptoms are not clear, identifying these disorders can be difficult. We’re working to raise awareness of diagnostic markers and treatment options.

​Meet Our Co-Founders

Jodi Barth, PT, and Gincy Stezar, PTA, were honored with the 2018 Outstanding Physical Therapist/ Physical Therapy Assistant Team Award by the Board of Directors of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). This award recognizes Jodi and Gincy’s exceptional contributions to the association and its components. 

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OUR VISION
We are working toward the day when every person afflicted with facial palsy or TMJ disorders can receive expert care from healthcare professionals who understand the complexities of these conditions, are willing to take action early and often, and have an educated, current approach to pursuing full recovery.