Muscle weakness within the tongue, mouth, and upper throat may
lead to snoring and obstructive sleep apnea. This may be
improved with strengthening exercises called myofunctional
therapy, especially when used in children. What is myofunctional
therapy? What types of facial exercises are involved? What Is
Myofunctional Therapy? Myofunctional therapy is a program of
specific exercises that target the facial muscles used to chew
and swallow. These exercises strengthen the tongue. The
oropharynx is the part of the body that includes the mouth and
throat. In simple terms, it is a tube lined by muscular tissues.
These muscles help us to eat, talk, and breathe. They also help
to keep the airway open, especially during sleep. When the
muscles of the oropharynx are weak, they may disrupt the flow of
air and snoring may ensue. If they let the tube collapse, the
airway becomes blocked, such as happens during sleep apnea.
Moreover, a weak and floppy tongue may fall back into the throat
and create an obstruction. Myofunct