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Understanding Tongue Dysfunction 

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Suffer from

Tongue Dysfunction

Tongue dysfunction refers to limitations in tongue mobility, coordination, or strength that impact essential functions such as swallowing, vocal ability, and can contribute to jaw dysfunction and symptoms. When the tongue cannot rest or move properly—whether due to tension, overuse, trauma, or compensatory patterns—it can lead to a range of issues across the jaw, neck, and affect speech, voice and swallowing.

Massage therapy can support tongue rehabilitation by addressing muscular restrictions, and restoring balance to the soft tissues that influence tongue function.

Common Causes and Contributing Factors to Tongue Dysfunction

There are several reasons why someone may require tongue rehabilitation, particularly in cases involving:

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Overuse: often seen in professionals who use their voice often (educators, singers, performers)

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Speech and Swallowing Difficulties: Restricted or uncoordinated tongue muscles can affect articulation and the ability to safely chew and swallow.

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Neck and Jaw Tension: Chronic tension in the suprahyoid muscles, jaw, or throat can create compensatory strain that limits tongue function and comfort.

Signs and Symptoms of Tongue Dysfunction

People with tongue dysfunction may experience symptoms such as:

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  • Restricted or effortful tongue movement​

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  • Difficulty elevating the tongue to the palate

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  • Fatigue when speaking, chewing, or swallowing

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  • Pain or tension when speaking or swallowing

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  • Forward head posture or persistent neck tightness

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  • Clicking in the jaw or TMJ discomfort

Massage Therapy for Tongue Rehabilitation

Massage therapy is a valuable adjunct to speech-language pathology in the treatment of tongue dysfunction. By targeting the soft tissues of the jaw, floor of the mouth, neck, and throat, massage can improve muscular tone, mobility, and integration.

Intra-Oral Massage for Tongue

With most patients, intra-oral massage may be recommended as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. This involves gentle massage techniques applied inside the mouth to target the deep muscles of the jaw and tongue.
 

At From the Neck Up, we believe that intra-oral massage should never hurt. It should feel relevant, therapeutic, important and safe.

  • What are the key benefits of massage for TMD/TMJD
    Release of Muscle Tension: Massage therapy targets the muscles of mastication (the muscles involved in chewing), which often become tight due to clenching or grinding, or oversuse. By releasing this tension, massage can alleviate jaw pain and stiffness. Improved Jaw Mobility: Massage therapy can improve the range of motion in the jaw, making it easier to open and close the mouth without pain or discomfort. This can help reduce symptoms like jaw locking and difficulty chewing. Reduced Headaches: Many individuals with TMD/TMJD experience tension headaches or migraines due to tightness in the jaw and neck muscles. Massage therapy can reduce this muscle tension, leading to a decrease in the frequency and intensity of headaches. Stress Relief: Since stress is a major contributor to TMD, calming the nervous system through massage therapy can help minimize jaw clenching, teeth grinding, and overall muscle tension.
  • What to expect from massage therapy for TMD/TMJD
    A typical massage therapy session for TMD/TMJD may include a combination of manual therapy, trigger point therapy, and intra-oral work (if indicated). The therapist will first assess your symptoms & dysfunctions and create a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs. In addition to direct massage work on the jaw, head, and neck, your therapist will also create a custom self-care program for you to perform at home to maintain your progress and manage the return of symptoms.
  • How Long Does it Take to See Results?
    The length of time it takes to experience relief from TMD/TMJD symptoms will vary depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment plan. Some patients feel immediate relief after a few sessions, while others may require multiple treatments over the course of several weeks. Consistency in therapy is key to managing and reducing the impact of TMD/TMJD.
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From the Neck Up: Massage Therapy for Tongue Function

Massage therapy for tongue rehabilitation offers a gentle, effective way to release restrictions, improve mobility, and enhance neuromuscular coordination.
 

Book a session with Jules one of our Registered Massage Therapists who is trained and has developed techniques related to tongue rehabilitation.

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