Myofunctional therapy is a specialized form of dental treatment that can make a huge difference in patients’ lives. People who struggle with a range of health problems, from sleep apnea to speech/hearing disorders, can often find relief through myofunctional therapy. While the treatment process can be long and difficult, those who undergo it often experience life changing results. In this article, we will dive into the benefits of myofunctional therapy, as well as discuss a few success stories from people that have benefitted from the treatment.
Understanding Myofunctional Therapy
Myofunctional therapy is a form of physical therapy, specializing in the treatment of disorders related to the muscles and structures that involve chewing, swallowing, and speech. These structures are collectively known as ‘orofacial myology’. The goal of myofunctional therapy is to restore proper function and balance to the orofacial muscles, to alleviate the signs and symptoms related to various disorders.
The therapy is often provided by specially trained speech pathologists known as ‘myofunctional therapists’. The therapy sessions may include a series of stretching and strengthening exercises meant to tense and relax muscles, postural and breathing exercises, massage or manual therapies, and electrical stimulation. These exercises merge principles from speech pathology, physical therapy, and behavioral science to provide a comprehensive treatment approach.
Benefits of Myofunctional Therapy
The benefits of myofunctional therapy are numerous and can positively impact all areas of a patient’s life. For those suffering from airway-related disorders such as sleep apnea, the treatment can help to increase airway efficiency and decrease episodes. For patients with TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders, myofunctional therapy can help to reduce pain and stiffness. It can also aid in improving speech, swallowing, and other oral-facial function.
Perhaps the greatest benefit of myofunctional therapy is the long-term, life-altering impact. Research has shown that underlying myofunctional issues can lead to lifelong problems such as poor posture, neck pain, speech and reading difficulties, and even headaches and migraines. Addressing and treating these issues early can help prevent these problems from occurring in the future.
Success Stories from Myofunctional Therapy
There are countless stories of individuals whose lives have been transformed by myofunctional therapy. From young children suffering from speech and feeding difficulties to adults with snoring and breathing issues, the therapeutic approach has proven successful. One parent writes on a website dedicated to myofunctional therapy:
“Our daughter was having a difficult time learning to speak, and was also having trouble with chewing and swallowing. We took her to a myofunctional therapist who was able to help her with exercises and other therapies. Just a few months after starting therapy, her speech improved significantly, and she is now able to eat and enjoy her meals with much less difficulty. It has truly been a life-changer for our family!”
Another story comes from an adult who struggled with severe snoring and breathing issues due to myofunctional problems. After being diagnosed and undergoing treatment, they wrote:
“In just a few months, my snoring has decreased significantly, and I’ve noticed that I feel more rested when I wake up in the morning. I can actually go through an entire night without waking up with a headache or sore throat! I can’t believe how much better I’m sleeping, and it’s all thanks to myofunctional therapy.”
These unique success stories only scratch the surface of the many ways in which myofunctional therapy can improve a patient’s life. Countless individuals have benefitted from the therapeutic approach and have found relief from their chronic problems.
In Conclusion
Myofunctional therapy can provide a long-term solution for a range of oro-facial problems such as poor posture, TMJ, and harmanistic issues. The treatment can also have a positive impact on speech/hearing difficulties and sleep apnea. Merging principles from speech pathology, physiognomy, and behaviorism, the therapy can help people treat their problems and heal them from the root. Countless people have benefitted from myofunctional therapy, and the stories of their successes make it clear just how powerful this treatment can be.