Myofunctional Therapy
What is myofunctional therapy?
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) consists of combinations of oropharyngeal exercises (i.e., mouth and throat exercises). These combinations typically involve both isotonic and isometric exercises of several areas of the mouth, pharynx and upper respiratory tract. These exercises work on several functions, such as speaking, breathing, blowing, sucking, chewing, and swallowing.
How does OMT work?
OMT works to increase muscle tone, endurance, and coordinated movements of pharyngeal and peripharyngeal muscles. It helps to reposition the tongue, improve nasal breathing, and increase muscle tone in all patients.
Does OMT help sleep?
Yes. There are multiple systematic reviews and meta-analyses supporting the use of OMT in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)/upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS). OMT has been shown to decrease the severity of OSA, decrease snoring, decrease daytime sleepiness, and increase sleep quality. OMT can be used alone or in concert with other interventions (e.g., continuous positive airway pressure [CPAP] or oral appliance therapy [OAT]).
Who is a good candidate for OMT?
OMT can be started and be helpful at any time for someone with OSA or UARS. For children, studies have shown that OMT prevents residual OSA after adenotonsillectomy. In adults, it helps adherence in CPAP-treated OSA patients but can also be used as a solo treatment in some specific patient populations.
How can I do OMT?
Ultimately, talking to your sleep specialist will be important to see if OMT is right for you. If so, a speech-language pathologist therapist who specializes in OMT will lead you through training exercises with multiple sessions over time.