<![CDATA[Background: Unilateral facial muscle dysfunction in peripheral facial paralysis (PFP) involves network vessel vacuity and wind pathogen invasion. While traditional acupuncture uses fixed points, it lacks dynamic adaptation, which can be optimized through force-sensitive acupuncture (FSA) targeted at mechanically sensitized points. This study evaluates the clinical efficacy and safety of FSA compared to traditional acupuncture for PFP. Methods: A randomized controlled trial was conducted from January 2025 to January 2026 on 60 PFP participants randomly assigned to either the FSA group (n=30), treated at palpated mechanically sensitized points, or the control group (n=30), treated at fixed points. Treatments were administered once daily for 14 days. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, day 7, and day 14 using the Sunnybrook Facial Nerve Function Score and House-Brackmann (H-B) Grading System. Results: Baseline characteristics were comparable between groups (p > 0.05). No statistical differences emerged at week 1 (p > 0.05). However, after 14 days of cumulative treatment, the FSA group achieved significantly superior Sunnybrook scores (median FSA: 76.50, control: 73.00; Z = -2.030, p= 0.042) and H-B grades (median FSA: 2, control: 3; Z = -2.610, p = 0.009) compared to the control group. Overall clinical efficacy was 100% for FSA and 96.67% for control. No adverse reactions were reported. Discussion: FSA is a safe and effective treatment for acute PFP. It yields greater facial nerve recovery than traditional acupuncture, supporting its cumulative efficacy and broader clinical application.]]>
