Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy
"The study and treatment of oral and facial muscles as they relate to speech, dentition, chewing/bolus collection, swallowing, and overall mental and physical health."
-S.R. Holtzman, MS, CCC-SLP, COM®
Symptoms of Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMD)'s may include the following:
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Articulation errors (ex. lisps)
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Tongue thrust
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Open mouth posture
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Low tongue posture
Common Causes of OMD's:
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Ankyloglossia (tongue-tie)
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Noxious oral habits (ex. prolonged pacifier or bottle use, thumb/finger sucking, nail biting, cheek biting)
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Upper airway obstruction (ex. allergies, enlarged adenoids and/or tonsils)
Orofacial Myofuncitonal Therapy promotes optimal orofacial muscle development and function. Speech (articulation) treatment is also sometimes recommended.
Referrals to other health professionals may be recommended so that the client can achieve the most desirable outcome. Examples might include referrals to orthodontists, ENT specialists, dentists, and body workers.
Feeding Therapy
According to ASHA, "Feeding disorders include problems gathering food and getting ready to suck, chew, or swallow it. For example, a child who cannot pick up food and get it to her mouth may have a feeding disorder."
Many children today are described as "picky" eaters. In fact, 25% of typically developing children and up to 80% of children with developmental delays and/or health issues are reported to have feeding disorders (Manikam R, Perman JA). Children may present with food texture aversions and/or have a limited diet (i.e. chicken nuggets and fries).
Infants can also present with difficulties feeding due to an undiagnosed upper lip-tie and/or tongue-tie.
A feeding evaluation will assess the client's ability to suck, chew, eat, swallow, and tolerate foods and liquids of different textures.
Mealtimes should be happy times!
SCREENINGS, EVALUATIONS, & TREATMENT
Services
Screenings and evaluations are available by appointment.
Teletherapy services are available to NC, SC & VA residents.
