Tongue Tie
The Lingual Frenum is a band of tissue connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth. Everyone has one. If the frenum is too short then the tongues movement is restricted and that is known as a Tongue Tie.
Is a Tongue Tie Concerning?
When the tongue is restricted other muscles in the mouth, face and neck compensate for the restriction. When the tongue is significantly restricted, the compensations are also likely to be significant and that individual is likely to experience pain, tension, sleep disturbances and other typical symptoms.
Does a Tongue Tie Have To Be Released?
The decision to release the tongue tie is made together with the client and based on symptoms and the ability to complete therapy. I will never suggest releasing a tie just for the sake of releasing a tie. There must be a benefit involved and the client must be willing to complete therapy. Once the tie is released the tongue will be able to move in a way that it has never moved before. In order to receive optimal benefits we will have to train your tongue and mouth to move without the compensations it learned before the release.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of a tongue tie can include:
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Chronic headache/neck pain/shoulder pain
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Chronic head/neck/shoulder tension
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TMJ/TMD
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Orthodontic Relapse (teeth moving back after braces)
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Digestive Issues
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Clenching/grinding
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What Are The Benefits?
The overall goal is to restore function. I work with clients to improve nasal breathing, chewing, swallowing and optimize the resting position of the lips and tongue. All clients have different goals and experience a variety of different benefits, however when goals have been achieved clients most often report:
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Reduction in Pain and Tension
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More restful sleep
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Increased energy through the day
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Better Focus
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More Comfortable Digestion