Functional Approach to Tongue Tie
Tongue ties can affect people of all ages. You may have heard about tongue ties contributing to breastfeeding difficulties in infancy but in fact some people continue to suffer with orofacial dysfunction as a result well into childhood and adulthood. If the tongue or lips cannot move in a way to support good function, the body and the muscles compensate and issues can arise.
It is important to note that a proper diagnosis can only be made by a highly trained medical or dental practitioner who has undergone further study in the field. There are many factors that assist in proper diagnosis and will include a visual inspection as well as a functional assessment. It is important to note that not all orofacial dysfunction is a result of a tongue tie. We always work to improve function first and see how much we can improve before referring for any diagnosis or surgical intervention.
Early Intervention
Breast feeding is the first and best orofacial myofunctional exercise available to babies and super important for encouraging nasal breathing and optimal facial development. Breastmilk has amazing immune boosting powers and provides all the nutritional needs of your baby. However, their can be challenges and working with a well trained International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is really important. You can find breastfeeding support at the Australian Breastfeeding Association website. It is important to keep in mind that not all breastfeeding challenges are related to tongue ties. Body tension related to position in utero, the birth process and other factors can contribute. A highly trained paediatric body worker such as an osteopath or chiropractor can properly assess for this kind of tension and support your baby with gentle adjustments to make feeding more comfortable. If you are still having breastfeeding difficulties, please know that you are not alone and please seek support to continue. Please speak to a medical or dental professional who is trained in the intricacies of tongue ties and can properly diagnose with a visual and functional assessment.
It is important to note that a proper diagnosis can only be made by a highly trained medical or dental practitioner who has undergone further study in the field. There are many factors that assist in proper diagnosis and will include a visual inspection as well as a functional assessment. It is important to note that not all orofacial dysfunction is a result of a tongue tie. We always work to improve function first and see how much we can improve before referring for any diagnosis or surgical intervention.
Early Intervention
Breast feeding is the first and best orofacial myofunctional exercise available to babies and super important for encouraging nasal breathing and optimal facial development. Breastmilk has amazing immune boosting powers and provides all the nutritional needs of your baby. However, their can be challenges and working with a well trained International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) is really important. You can find breastfeeding support at the Australian Breastfeeding Association website. It is important to keep in mind that not all breastfeeding challenges are related to tongue ties. Body tension related to position in utero, the birth process and other factors can contribute. A highly trained paediatric body worker such as an osteopath or chiropractor can properly assess for this kind of tension and support your baby with gentle adjustments to make feeding more comfortable. If you are still having breastfeeding difficulties, please know that you are not alone and please seek support to continue. Please speak to a medical or dental professional who is trained in the intricacies of tongue ties and can properly diagnose with a visual and functional assessment.
Rehabilitation for Older Children and Adults
Oro-myofunctional rehabilitation is recommended before and after any surgical procedure to improve muscle strength and coordination. The reason older children and adults have tongue ties surgically released must always be to support good function. We must restore as much function as possible before we consider surgery. Without pre and post operative rehabilitation, the risk of reattachment is much higher and many muscle compensations may remain and reduce the effectiveness of the surgery. After the surgery we continue to restore ideal function of the whole system. This is the tongue, the nose, the deep frontline fascial network and posture. We have a full body philosophy and tailor a rehabilitation plan for you |