by Alvin Ho, Associate Physiotherapist & Orofacial Myofunctional Therapist (Leeming clinic)
Snoring is a common problem that is frustrating for sufferers, and seldom discussed publicly. However, time and time again snoring is indicated in studies and surveys as an issue that causes marriage and relationship issues in areas like reduced intimacy, resentment and, commonly, sleep divorce – where partners sleep in separate rooms.
Through my interactions with patients, I have learned that many people decide to simply live with it, and are often embarrassed to even raise the topic. Interestingly, most come to me not realising that there are solutions like orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) physio for snoring, which can help improve the situation long-term.
In recent years, there are many products marketed to ‘fix’ snoring, including nasal strips and mouth tape. While they may be helpful in the short-term for some patients, many people do not see these products as something viable long-term. It’s hard to know if these product are suitable or safe for long-term use. For example, if a patient has a compromised airway from enlarged tonsils and adenoids, does mouth tape increase the risk of asphyxiation (lack of oxygen), when their muscles are relaxed during deep sleep?
What is Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT)?
Orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) is a form of physio that can improve the function of the muscles involved in breathing and airway stability. Just as we can build our muscles and improve physical coordination and mobility through strength training, we can also improve the tone and control of our muscles in the mouth and throat. By addressing the root cause, this form of physiotherapy for snoring can be an effective long-term solution to reduce symptoms and improve quality of life.
Why Do We Snore?
Snoring occurs when a person’s airflow is partially blocked during sleep. As our body relaxes in sleep, muscle tone dampens down. The tongue may fall backward and block off our airways together with the relaxed soft tissues of the throat. When air passes through this narrowed passageway, it creates a vibrating sound we hear as snoring.
Some factors affecting snoring include:
- Nasal congestion (e.g. allergies)
- Sleeping position (especially lying on the back)
- Body weight and composition
- Excessive alcohol intake
- Stress and hormone levels
- Various general health and lifestyle factors
One of the most overlooked contributors to snoring is poor strength, tone and coordination of the muscles of the mouth and throat. OMT addresses these issues.
How OMT Helps Reduce Snoring
Orofacial myofunctional therapy helps reduce snoring by directly addressing the muscle dysfunction that contributes to airway collapse. Through a tailored exercise program, we can improve:
- Resting tongue position
- Jaw stability
- Coordination of the muscles of the throat
Research shows that OMT can reduce the frequency and intensity of snoring significantly. This is even the case for people diagnosed with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnoea. OMT can be very helpful in conjunction with other interventions like a CPAP machine or specialised mouthguard (e.g. a mandibular advancement splint).
In the long run, some people with obstructive sleep apnoea can discontinue the CPAP or mouth splint completely. (Stay tuned for more information about obstructive sleep apnoea in future posts).
Signs to Look Out For
If you experience any of the below, you may an excellent candidate for OMT:
- Snoring regularly
- Waking up with a dry mouth or throat
- Notice excessive mouth breathing especially at night
- Have been diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnoea
It is especially crucial if any of the above signs are observed in children. Studies have shown that long-term sleep disordered breathing can be associated with poor brain development, and often these children present with behavioural issues (another topic to be discussed in future).
Do I Need Physiotherapy for Snoring?
If you think you may benefit from physiotherapy for snoring, it is important to be assessed and guided by a trained therapist to ensure that the exercises are tailored to your situation and needs. In some cases, further intervention may be required in conjunction with OMT for effective results, such as consultation and treatment by an ENT specialist.
Book online for an OMT initial assessment session and start working towards more restful restorative sleep.
