How to improve Facial Expression Loss with P.D

How to Improve Facial Expression Loss in Parkinson’s Disease

Parkinson’s disease often brings changes that go beyond movement—it can also affect facial expression. This “masked face” look happens because the muscles of the face become less active, making it harder to show emotions. While this is common, there are ways to help keep those muscles moving and improve expression.

Why Does Facial Expression Change in Parkinson’s?

Facial muscles rely on signals from the nervous system to move. Parkinson’s slows these signals, which can lead to reduced blinking, smaller smiles, and less overall movement. This can make communication harder and even affect social connection.

Simple Exercises to Keep Your Face Moving

Consistency is key! Try these exercises daily, using a mirror for feedback:

• Eyebrow Raises
  Lift your eyebrows as high as you can, hold for 5 seconds, relax. Repeat 5 times.
  
  

• Frown Practice
  Pull your brows together like you’re frowning, hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
  
  

• Wide-Eye Openings
  Open your eyes wide, relax other facial muscles, hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
  
  

• Tight Eye Closures
  Close your eyes tightly, hold for 5 seconds, repeat up to 20 times a day.
  
  

• Big Smiles
  Show a broad, toothy smile, hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5–20 times daily.
  
  

• Lip Puckers
  Pucker your lips like for a kiss, hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
  
  

• Jaw Openings
  Open your mouth wide (about 3 fingers), hold for 5 seconds, repeat 5 times.
  
  

Don’t Forget Tongue Exercises

These help with speech clarity and swallowing:

• Circular Tongue Movements
  Make slow circles inside your lips, 5 times each direction.
  
  

• Side-to-Side Tongue Pushes
  Move your tongue corner to corner or push against your cheeks, hold for 2–3 seconds, repeat 5 times each side.
  
  

Why These Exercises Matter

Facial and oral exercises can help reduce the “masked” look, improve speech clarity, and support safe swallowing. They’re simple, but they work best when done regularly.

✅ Need Personalized Support?

At Purple Heron Therapy, we specialize in helping people with Parkinson’s improve communication, swallowing, and facial expression.
👉 Register on our portal to schedule your consultation today!