Conditions / Sleep-disordered breathing
Sleep-disordered breathing
A spectrum that includes snoring, upper airway resistance, and obstructive sleep apnea. Myofunctional therapy is part of a multi-disciplinary approach, not a substitute for medical care.
What it is
Sleep-disordered breathing ranges from light snoring to obstructive sleep apnea. The common thread is partial or complete airway collapse during sleep, often related to muscle tone and tongue position.
Diagnosis is medical — typically through a sleep study. Treatment may include CPAP, oral appliance therapy, weight management, myofunctional therapy, or surgical intervention.
Common signs
- ·Loud, habitual snoring
- ·Witnessed pauses in breathing during sleep
- ·Gasping or choking arousals
- ·Excessive daytime sleepiness
- ·Morning headaches
- ·Difficulty concentrating
How myofunctional therapy may help
Educational, not diagnostic. Outcomes vary; results are not guaranteed.
Strengthen the muscles of the tongue and upper airway.
Retrain the tongue to rest in the high posture that supports airway patency.
Address mouth breathing that worsens airway dynamics during sleep.
What to expect
A typical program runs 4–6 months.
Therapy complements, but does not replace, your medical treatment (CPAP, oral appliance, etc.).
Coordinate with your sleep medicine provider throughout.