Effectiveness of photobiomodulation and orofacial myofunctional therapy in orofacial pain disorders. A systematic review of randomized control trials.

Orofacial pain can significantly affect physical, psychological, and overall quality of life. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of combining photobiomodulation (PBM) with orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) in managing orofacial pain disorders. An electronic search of randomized controlled trials in electronic databases was performed until March 2024. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) focusing on PBM and OMT for the management of orofacial pain were included. Risk of bias across individual studies was performed using the Cochrane risk of bias tool for interventions. A total of 10 RCTs were included, out of which 7 RCTs revealed that the combined approach of PBM and OMT had a more pronounced impact on diminishing pain and enhancing functional activity in patients with orofacial disorders. One study reported significant increases in pressure pain threshold for TMJ, masseter, and anterior temporalis muscles at both sides in the post-treatment compared with the pre-treatment in both groups. The risk of bias was low in 7, moderate in 2, and high in 1 study. The efficacy of a combined modality treatment of PBM with OMT for orofacial pain disorder shows promising results. However, further randomized controlled trials with extended follow-up periods standardized PBM and OMT parameters are warranted to obtain firm conclusions.

Validação do conteúdo de um protocolo de avaliação da motricidade orofacial em lactentes / Content validation of an orofacial myofunctional assessment protocol for infants / Validación del contenido de un protocolo para la evaluación de la motricidad orofacial en bebés

Introdução: Muitos estudos têm se dedicado a compreender melhor a dinâmica da avaliação das estruturas e funções estomatognáticas de lactentes; até a presente pesquisa não foram encontrados estudos específicos para essa faixa etária, até recentemente. Objetivo: Validar o conteúdo de um instrumento fonoaudiológico de avaliação da motricidade orofacial para lactentes na faixa etária de um mês a dois anos. Metodologia: Foi elaborado o instrumento para "avaliação fonoaudiológica da motricidade orofacial de lactentes de um mês a dois anos" a partir dos dados obtidos na literatura. A validação do conteúdo do instrumento se deu por meio da avaliação de quatro juízes para clareza dos itens propostos no protocolo e da representatividade dos mesmos no processo de validação do conteúdo. Os juízes classificaram cada item quanto à clareza, a partir de uma escala tipo Likert de quatro pontos, sendo: (4) muito claro, (3) claro, (2) pouco claro, (1) sem clareza, com o propósito de realizar a validação do conteúdo por meio da aplicação da equação do Índice de Validação do Conteúdo (IVC). Resultados: O protocolo desenvolvido possui 8 itens e uma breve anamnese: Hábitos Orais; Avaliação Estrutural; Respiração; Voz; Avaliação Funcional; Alimentação e Deglutição - líquidos e alimentos em pedaços; Diagnóstico Fonoaudiológico. A etapa seguinte contou com a análise da representatividade e para clareza dos itens do protocolo pelos juízes, e após a segunda análise, a validação do conteúdo resultou na permanência dos 8 itens com Índice de Validade de Conteúdo total de 100%. Conclusão: O conteúdo do protocolo foi considerado válido para uso na avaliação do público-alvo, comprovado por profissionais com experiência na área. A versão final do Protocolo de avaliação fonoaudiológica da motricidade orofacial de bebês foi finalizada com 8 itens de avaliação. (AU)

Introduction: The instruments for evaluating the structures and functions of the stomatognathic system in babies have been lacking in studies. Objective: To validate the content of a speech-language instrument to assess orofacial motricity for babies aged between one month and two years old. Methodology: The instrument for "speech-language assessment of the orofacial motricity of babies from one month to two years old" was created based on the data obtained by the integrative review. The instrument's content was validated through the evaluation of four judges. The judges classified each item according to clarity, based on a four-point Likert scale, as follows: (4) very clear, (3) clear, (2) lightly clear, (1) unclear, to perform content validation by applying the Content Validation Index (CVI) equation. Results: The developed protocol has eight items and a brief anamnesis: Oral Habits; Structural Assessment; Breathing; Voice; Functional Assessment; Feeding and Swallowing - liquids and food in pieces; and Speech-Language Diagnosis. The next step included the analysis of the representativeness of the protocol items by the judges. After the second analysis, the validation of the content resulted in the permanence of the eight items with a total Content Validity Index of 100%. Conclusion: The content of the protocol was considered valid for use in the evaluation of the target audience, proven by people with experience in the area. The final version of the Protocol for the Speech-Language Pathology Assessment of Orofacial Motricity in Babies was completed with eight assessment items. (AU)

Introducción: Los instrumentos para la evaluación de las estructuras y funciones del sistema estomatognático en los bebés han mostrado falta de estudios. Objetivo: Validar el contenido de un instrumento de fonoaudiología para la evaluación de la motricidad orofacial en bebés de un mes a dos años de edad. Metodología: Inicialmente, se llevó a cabo la elaboración del instrumento para la "evaluación logopédica de la motricidad orofacial de bebés de un mes a dos años de edad" propiamente dicho, a partir de los datos obtenidos por la revisión integradora. La validación del contenido del instrumento se realizó a través de la evaluación de cuatro jueces. Los jueces calificaron cada ítem en términos de claridad, utilizando una escala de Likert de cuatro puntos, de la siguiente manera: (4) muy claro, (3) claro, (2) poco claro, (1) poco claro, con el propósito de realizar la validación de contenido a través de la aplicación de la ecuación del Índice de Validación de Contenido (CVI). Resultados: después de la lectura y discusión de los artículos, fue posible desarrollar el protocolo que contiene 8 ítems y una breve anamnesis, que son: Hábitos Orales; Evaluación Estructural; Respiración; Voz; Evaluación Funcional; Alimentación y deglución: líquidos y alimentos en trozos; y; Diagnóstico de Patología del Habla-Lenguaje. El siguiente paso fue el análisis de la representatividad de los ítems del protocolo por parte de los jueces, y luego del segundo análisis, la validación de contenido resultó en la permanencia de 8 ítems con un Índice de Validez de Contenido total del 100%. Conclusión: El contenido del protocolo se consideró válido para su uso en la evaluación del público objetivo, confirmado por personas con experiencia en el área. La versión final del Protocolo de evaluación de la patología del habla y el lenguaje para la motricidad orofacial en bebés se completó con 8 ítems de evaluación. (AU)

[Effect of maxillary expansion combined with orofacial myofunctional therapy on the position of the tongue of children with mouth breathing].

Objective:This study aimed to investigate the change of the position of the tongue before and after combined treatment of maxillary expansion and orofacial myofunctional therapy in children with mouth-breathing and skeletal class Ⅱmalocclusion. Methods:A total of 30 children with skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion and unobstructed upper airway were selected. The 30 children were divided into mouth-breathing group（n=15） and nasal-breathing group（n=15） and CBCT was taken. The images were measured by Invivo5 software. The measurement results of the tongue position of the two groups were analyzed by independent samples t-test. 15 mouth-breathing children with skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion were selected for maxillary expansion and orofacial myofunctional therapy. CBCT was taken before and after treatment, the measurements were analyzed by paired sample t test with SPSS 27.0 software package. Results:The measurement of the tongue position of the mouth-breathing and nasal-breathing groups were compared, the differences were statistically significant（P<0.05）. The measurement of the tongue position showed significant difference after the combined treatment of maxillary expansion and orofacial myofunctional therapy in children with mouth-breathing and skeletal class Ⅱmalocclusion（P<0.05）. Conclusion:Skeletal class Ⅱ malocclusion children with mouth-breathing have low tongue posture. The combined treatment of maxillary expansion and orofacial myofunctional therapy can change the position of the tongue.

Abordagem interdisciplinar no tratamento da macroglossia na síndrome de Beckwith-Wiedemann: relato de caso / Interdisciplinary approach in the treatment of macroglossia in Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome: case report

RESUMO O objetivo deste estudo foi relatar a abordagem interdisciplinar no manejo da macroglossia em um caso de paciente com síndrome de Beckwith-Wiedemann, no período de dez anos. O acompanhamento iniciou pela equipe de Cirurgia Bucomaxilofacial, seguido da Fonoaudiologia, em função de dificuldades alimentares. Após avaliação clínica e instrumental, aos 8 meses de idade, iniciou-se a intervenção fonoaudiológica com foco na disfagia orofaríngea e na terapia miofuncional orofacial. Foi verificado, com 1 ano e 11 meses, ausência de sinais de alteração de deglutição em fase faríngea e melhora na postura de lábios e língua. Aos 3 anos, foram iniciados estímulos para retirada dos hábitos orais e o treino da função mastigatória. O tratamento ortodôntico para correção de mordida aberta anterior e mordida cruzada posterior unilateral iniciou-se aos 6 anos. Aos 7 anos e 5 meses de idade, constatou-se estabilidade do modo respiratório nasal e adequação da postura de repouso de lábios e língua. Aos 9 anos, em função de recidiva das alterações oclusais, optou-se pela redução cirúrgica da língua seguida de terapia miofuncional orofacial, retomada aos 9 anos e 3 meses. O resultado foi a correção da postura da língua na deglutição e a adequação da fala. A associação dos tratamentos, envolvendo Fonoaudiologia, Ortodontia e Cirurgia Bucomaxilofacial foi considerada efetiva no manejo da macroglossia, resultando na adequação e equilíbrio das funções orofaciais.

ABSTRACT This study aims to report the interdisciplinary management of macroglossia in a Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome patient during ten years. Clinical follow-up started by the Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery team, followed by Speech Therapy due to feeding difficulties. After clinical and instrumental evaluation, at 8 months old, the speech therapy intervention was indicated, focusing on oropharyngeal dysphagia and orofacial myofunctional therapy. At 1 year and 11 months, no signs of swallowing alteration in the pharyngeal phase and improvement in the posture of the lips and tongue were found. At the age of 3, stimulation to remove oral habits and train masticatory function were initiated. Orthodontic treatment to correct anterior open bite and unilateral posterior crossbite started at age 6. At 7 years and 5 months, there was stability in the nasal breathing mode and adequacy of resting posture of lips and tongue. At the age of 9, due to relapse of the occlusal alterations, surgical reduction of the tongue was indicated, followed by orofacial myofunctional therapy, restarted at the age of 9 years and 3 months. The result was the correction of the posture of the tongue during swallowing and speech adequacy. The association of treatments involving Speech Therapy, Orthodontics and Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery was considered effective in the management of the macroglossia. It resulted in the adequacy and equilibrium of orofacial functions.

Fotobiomodulação no tratamento do trismo em pacientes tratados por câncer de boca ou orofaringe: um ensaio clínico controlado randomizado / Photobiomodulation in the treatment of trismus in patients treated for oral or oropharyngeal cancer: a randomized controlled clinical trial

RESUMO Objetivo investigar a eficácia da associação entre a fotobiomodulação de baixa frequência e a terapia fonoaudiológica tradicional no tratamento do trismo, em pacientes tratados por câncer de boca ou orofaringe. Métodos ensaio clínico controlado, randomizado, longitudinal e prospectivo, realizado de acordo as normas da declaração CONSORT 2010. Para a coleta de dados, foi utilizado o questionário sociodemográfico, a avaliação clínica, a mensuração da abertura de boca por paquímetro, o protocolo de dor McGuill e o protocolo de qualidade de vida WHOQOL-Bref. A amostra foi composta por 30 participantes, de ambos os gêneros na faixa etária de 35-75 anos, divididos em dois grupos, controle e experimental, de forma controlada, mediante sorteio igualitário no que tange aos critérios de inclusão e exclusão. Resultados por meio dos dados analisados, observou-se que houve aumento da amplitude vertical de mandíbula em ambos os grupos, GC: p<0,005 e GE: p<0,001. Não houve correlação estatística entre os grupos na comparação da abertura de boca, p>0,19, assim como em relação à dor orofacial e à qualidade de vida, p= 0,72, ambas as avaliações após a intervenção fonoaudiológica, porém, com melhores resultados para o GE, p<0,001. Conclusão Conclui-se pela eficácia da intervenção fonoaudiológica tradicional e a associação com a fotobiomodulação de baixa frequência no tratamento do trismo. Para a dor orofacial e qualidade de vida, o tratamento associado é mais benéfico.

ABSTRACT Purpose to investigate the effectiveness of the association between low-frequency photobiomodulation and traditional speech therapy in the treatment of trismus in patients treated for oral or oropharyngeal cancer. Methods controlled, randomized, longitudinal and prospective clinical trial, carried out in accordance with the norms of the CONSORT 2010 declaration. For data collection, a sociodemographic questionnaire, clinical evaluation, measurement of mouth opening by caliper, the protocol of McGuill pain and the WHOQOL-Bref quality of life protocol. The sample consisted of 30 participants, of both genders, aged between 35-75 years, divided into two groups, control and experimental, in a controlled manner, through an equal draw with regard to the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results through the analyzed data, it was observed that there was an increase in the vertical amplitude of the mandible in both groups, CG: p0.19, as well as in relation to orofacial pain and quality of life, p= 0.72, both assessments after the speech therapy intervention, however, with better results for the EG, p<0.001. Conclusion It is concluded that the traditional speech therapy intervention and its association with low-frequency photobiomodulation are effective in the treatment of trismus. For orofacial pain and quality of life, associated treatment is more beneficial.

Rehabilitation Protocol for Unilateral Laryngeal and Lingual Paralysis (Tapia Syndrome): Comment About "A Challenging Case of Tapia Syndrome After Total Thyroidectomy" By Ildem Deveci, Mehmet Surmeli, and Reyhan Surmeli.

Tapia syndrome is a rare complication after surgery, with ipsilateral paralysis of vocal cord and tongue due to extracranial involvement of recurrent laryngeal and hypoglossal nerves. Tapia's case report is extremely interesting for both the rarity of the reported cases and for the importance of an early rehabilitation. In a previous work, we reported a case of Tapia syndrome after cardiac surgery for aortic aneurysm, and the protocol of logopedic rehabilitation adopted. In the postoperative period, he developed severe dyspnea and dysphagia that required a tracheostomy and a logopedic rehabilitation therapy that led to a fast and efficient swallowing without aspiration after 47 sessions (less than 4 months). The progressive recovery of the function suggests aprassic nerve damage. However, the logopedic therapy is recommended to limit the possibility of permanent functional deficits and quickly recover swallowing and phonation.

Reabilitação fonoaudiológica na paralisia facial periférica: revisão integrativa / Speech-language rehabilitation in peripheral facial paralysis: integrative review

RESUMO Objetivos identificar e analisar a produção científica sobre as estratégias terapêuticas empregadas na reabilitação fonoaudiológica de pessoas com paralisia facial periférica (PFP). Estratégia de pesquisa foi realizada uma revisão integrativa, utilizando-se as bases de dados SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect e Portal CAPES. Os descritores foram: paralisia facial e paralisia de Bell, combinados com reabilitação, terapia miofuncional e fonoaudiologia ou seus correlatos em inglês. Critérios de seleção estudos disponíveis na íntegra, que abordaram a reabilitação fonoaudiológica em pessoas com PFP, publicados no período entre 1999 e 2019, em português brasileiro, inglês ou espanhol. Resultados foram identificadas 650 publicações, mas apenas cinco artigos contemplaram os critérios de inclusão propostos. Dentre estes, a SciELO e PubMed obtiveram dois artigos incluídos cada. Além disso, a maioria foi publicada nos últimos dez anos e produzida no Brasil. O português brasileiro foi o idioma de publicação de três dos cinco artigos incluídos, não ocorrendo predominância de um nível de evidência específico. A descrição dos procedimentos utilizados não foi suficientemente detalhada nos estudos. Exercícios isotônicos e isométricos foram abordados mais frequentemente. A bandagem surgiu como recurso terapêutico em um estudo. Conclusão embora haja um grande número de artigos relacionadas à PFP, apenas cinco estudos descreveram procedimentos fonoaudiológicos para pessoas com PFP, com nível de evidência baixo. Portanto, novos estudos abordando o tema são necessários.

ABSTRACT Purpose identify and analyze the scientific production about the therapeutic strategies employed in the speech-language rehabilitation of people with peripheral facial paralysis. Research strategy an integrative review was performed using the SciELO, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect and Portal CAPES databases. The descriptors were: facial paralysis and Bell's palsy, combined with rehabilitation, myofunctional therapy and Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences or their correlates in english. Selection criteria studies available in their entirety, which addressed speech-language rehabilitation in people with peripheral facial paralysis, published between 1999 and 2019, in Brazilian Portuguese, english or spanish, were selected. Results 650 publications were identified, but only five articles met the proposed inclusion criteria. Among these, SciELO and PubMed obtained two articles included each. In addition, most were published in the last ten years and produced in Brazil. Brazilian Portuguese was the language of publication of three of the five included, with no predominance of a specific level of evidence. The description of the procedures used was not sufficiently detailed in the studies. Isotonic and isometric exercises were approached more frequently. Bandage emerged as a therapeutic resource in one study. Conclusion Although there are a large number of articles related to peripheral facial paralysis, only five studies described speech-language procedures for people with peripheral facial paralysis, with low level of evidence. Therefore, further studies addressing the topic are needed.

Influence of mentalis muscle relaxation on oronasal breathing / A repercussão do relaxamento do músculo mentual na respiração oronasal

ABSTRACT Purpose: to investigate the existence of changes in the electromyographic patterns of the mentalis and inferior orbicularis oris muscles in oronasal breathers, submitted to massage therapy on the mentalis muscle. Methods: a controlled blind placebo experiment, with a sample of 19 oronasal breathers (1 man and 18 women), mean age (standard deviation) 22.3 (2.63) years, randomly divided into control and experimental groups, respectively with 7 and 12 volunteers. The experimental group alone underwent myotherapy with massages for 3 months, while electromyographic data were collected from both groups at the beginning and end of the treatment, both at rest and when swallowing water. The analysis of variance was conducted to test the existence of differences between the means; the 5% significance level was used. Results: the analysis of variance revealed signs of interaction between the group and phase effects when analyzing the root mean square values of both the inferior orbicularis oris and the mentalis muscles. As expected, no signs of significant differences were found between the means of the phases in the control group. On the other hand, signs of significant difference were found in the experimental group, with reduced root mean square values in both muscles. The inferior orbicularis oris muscle, which in the pre-phase had a mean (standard deviation) of 202.10 (161.47) µV, had, in the post-phase, values of 131.49 (159.18) µV. The mentalis muscle, in its turn, had in the pre- and post-phase, respectively, a mean (standard deviation) of 199.31 (279.77) µV and 114.58 (253.56) µV. Conclusion: given that no effect was detected in the control group, the decrease in the root mean square values of the mentalis and inferior orbicularis oris muscles in oronasal breathers was attributed to the massage therapy on the mentalis muscle.

RESUMO Objetivo: investigar a existência de modificações dos padrões eletromiográficos dos músculos mentual e orbicular inferior da boca em respiradores oronasais submetidas à massoterapia no músculo mentual. Métodos: experimento cego placebo controlado, com amostra de 19 respiradores oronasais, 1 homem e 18 mulheres, com média de idade (desvio-padrão) de 22,3 (2,63) anos, aleatoriamente dividida nos grupos controle e experimental, respectivamente com 7 e 12 voluntários. Apenas no grupo experimental foi aplicada mioterapia por meio de massagens, por três meses e em ambos os grupos foram coletados dados eletromiográficos no início e no final do tempo de tratamento nas condições de repouso e deglutição de água. A análise de variância foi aplicada para testar a existência de diferenças entre as médias e foi adotado o nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: a análise de variância revelou indícios de interação entre os efeitos de grupo e fase quando analisados os valores de Root Mean Square (RMS), tanto do músculo orbicular inferior como do músculo mentual. Como esperado, não foram encontrados indícios de diferenças significantes entre as médias das fases no grupo controle, entretanto, foram encontrados indícios de diferença significante no grupo experimental havendo redução das médias de RMS em ambos os músculos. O orbicular inferior, que na fase pré apresentava média (desvio padrão) de 202,10 (161,47) µV, apresentou valores de 131,49 (159,18) µV na fase pós, enquanto que o músculo mentual apresentou, respectivamente, nas fases pré e pós, média (desvio padrão) de 199,31 (279,77) µV e 114,58 (253,56) µV. Conclusão: tendo em vista a não detecção de efeito no grupo controle, atribui-se à massoterapia no músculo mentual a redução das médias de Root Mean Square dos músculos mentual e orbicular inferior da boca em respiradores oronasais.

Fonoaudiologia, gerontologia e a apneia obstrutiva do sono: relato de caso / Speech-language pathology, gerontology and obstructive sleep apnea: case report

RESUMO A eficácia da terapia fonoaudiológica está comprovada para a apneia obstrutiva do sono (AOS), principalmente para a população adulta. Entretanto, estudos com população acima de 65 anos são escassos. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi analisar a evolução clínica longitudinal de um sujeito idoso com AOS submetido à terapia miofuncional orofacial (TMO). Caso clínico, sexo masculino, 72 anos, com AOS, submetido à TMO após ter realizado avaliação clínica, exames de polissonografia (PSG) e avaliação clínica otorrinolaringológica, bem como a aplicação da escala de sonolência de Epworth, a classificação de Mallampati e a avaliação fonoaudiológica miofuncional orofacial em três momentos distintos: antes da TMO, após a TMO e após 22 meses da TMO. A TMO se configurou na realização de exercícios isométricos e isotônicos para região orofacial e faríngea, treino funcional em sessões semanais de 30 minutos, durante cinco meses, quando, então, as sessões foram espaçadas. Após os 22 meses de TMO, observaram-se evoluções nos parâmetros objetivos e subjetivos relativos ao sono, que foram analisados e identificados por meio de uma nova polissonografia (PSG), com os seguintes dados: exame basal, 24,5 eventos/hora e último exame de 4,63 eventos/hora. Verificou-se acentuada melhora da sonolência diurna excessiva e, ainda, melhora dos parâmetros miofuncionais orofaciais. Deste modo, pôde-se constatar que a TMO demonstrou resultados eficientes e eficazes na intervenção e no tratamento terapêutico fonoaudiológico, tendo como base a AOS do paciente idoso. Ressalta-se que tais resultados foram acompanhados e controlados por meio de avaliação multidisciplinar de modo longitudinal.

ABSTRACT The effectiveness of speech-language therapy is proven for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), especially for the adult population. However, studies with a population over 65 years are scarce. Thus, the aim of the present study was to analyze the longitudinal clinical evolution of an OSA elderly subject undergoing Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy (OMT). Male clinical case, 72 years old, with OSA submitted to OMT, polysomnography (PSG) exams, otorhinolaryngological clinical evaluation, Epworth sleepiness scale application, Mallampati classification and orofacial myofunctional speech evaluation in 3 different moments in time (before OMT, after OMT and after 22 months of OMT). OMT was configured to perform isometric and isotonic exercises for the orofacial and pharyngeal regions and functional training in weekly sessions of 30 minutes for 5 months. After that period, the sessions were spaced for biweekly, monthly and quarterly. After 22 months of OMT, an evolution was observed in the objective and subjective parameters related to sleep, identified by polysomnography (baseline test: 24.5 events / hour and last test of 4.63 events per hour), improvement in excessive daytime sleepiness and improvement of myofunctional orofacial parameters. Thus, it was observed that OMT demonstrated efficient and effective results of speech therapy intervention and therapeutic treatment based on OSA in this case report of an elderly person. It is noteworthy that such results were monitored and controlled through multidisciplinary evaluation in a longitudinal way.

Recomendaciones para la atención fonoaudiológica en motricidad orofacial en contexto Covid-19 / Recommendations for speech therapy in myofunctional orofacial in COVID-19 context

Buscamos otorgar recomendaciones de resguardo para el ejercicio de la profesión en el área de la motricidad orofacial de manera segura, tanto para el fonoaudiólogo, como para sus usuarios, documentadas en publicaciones científicas relevantes. El método usado en la busqueda constituye una revisión integradora. La búsqueda se realizó a través de las bases de datos Lilacs, PubMed y SciELO. Se consultaron diversas páginas web, bajo los términos COVID-19; SARS-CoV; protocolo de seguridad; sugerencias COVID-19 y guías de acción COVID-19. Los resultados encontrados se proponen recomendaciones para los fonoaudiólogos vinculados a la motricidad orofacial en diversos contextos. la identificación correcta de estas recomendaciones representa una de las acciones de absoluta prioridad, para que los profesionales puedan direccionar las conductas relacionadas con la seguridad del paciente y continuar las atenciones en contexto de COVID-19, aumentando las protecciones, con el fin de cuidar y evitar contagios en este proceso.

Provide recommendations for safeguarding the practice of the profession in the myofunctional area in a safe way, both for the speech therapist and for its users, documented in relevant scientific publications. Methods: it constitutes an integrating review. The search was performed through the Lilacs, Pubmed, SciELO databases, and various web pages were consulted, under the terms COVID-19; SARS-CoV 2; security protocol; COVID-19 suggestions and COVID 19 action guides. Results: Recommendations are proposed for speech pathologist linked to myofunctional therapy in various contexts. Discussion: the correct identification of these recommendations represents an absolute top-priority action so that professionals can instruct the behaviors related to patient safety and continue the treatments in COVID-19 context, increasing the protection, with the purpose of preventing infections in the process.

Modified inspiratory muscle training (m-IMT) as promising treatment for gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

BACKGROUND: Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is one of the most common diseases, but is still a challenge to cure. Different medical treatments are used, first of all Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), however these are sometimes ineffective and long-term intake can lead to underestimated complications. Recently, some studies investigated the role of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) in the medical treatment of GERD. It seems that IMT is able to increase the pressure generated by the lower oesophageal sphincter (LES), reduce spontaneous releases of LES, acid exposure, use of PPIs, and improve symptoms and quality of life for GERD patients. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of IMT in association with myofunctional therapy exercises of swallowing set by Daniel Garliner (m-IMT) on the symptoms of patients with non-erosive gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (NERD). METHODS: Twenty-one adult patients with NERD were enrolled from May to December 2017 and performed m-IMT over a period of 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, all the patients completed the following questionnaires: GERD oesophageal symptomatology (GERDQ), extra-oesophageal GERD symptomatology (RSI), quality of life (GERD-Health Related Quality of Life Questionnaire (GERD-HRQL), and underwent laryngeal endoscopy. RESULTS: Nineteen patients completed m-IMT. GERDQ (from 8.36±3.94 to 1.7±3.41; p<.05), RSI (from to 21.68±10.26 to 6.93±8.37; p<.05) and GERDHRQL (from 25.68±16.03 to 8.4±11.06; p<.05) the questionnaire scores significantly reduced after treatment. In addition, the laryngeal endoscopy score greatly improved (from 14.24±4.15 to 7.4±1.77; p<.05). CONCLUSIONS: m-IMT is a low cost therapy without side effects. It could be useful in association with PPI or alone for selected GERD cases and for mild NERD forms, in association with diet. Further studies are required to prove the effects of m-IMT on GERD symptoms and decide the best treatment schedule.

Terapia miofuncional en quemaduras orofaciales de segundo y tercer grado / Myofunctional therapy for 2nd and 3rd degree orofacial burns

Las quemaduras constituyen lesiones traumáticas que comprometen la piel. Aquellas que involucran la región facial son las más complejas, dada la relevancia estética y funcional de esta zona, afectando la expresión de emociones, así como procesos fundamentales como la visión, habla, alimentación, entre otros. Pese a la escasa evidencia, se ha demostrado que la terapia fonoaudiológica miofuncional disminuye las secuelas en pacientes con quemaduras orofaciales. En este contexto, la presente investigación tiene como objetivo describir y evidenciar los efectos de la terapia fonoaudiológica miofuncional en quemaduras orofaciales de 2° y 3er grado. Para ello, se incluyeron 10 sujetos con quemaduras orofaciales de 2° y 3er grado ingresados al Centro de Referencia Nacional de Quemados en Santiago de Chile, quienes recibieron evaluación y terapia miofuncional por un fonoaudiólogo durante su hospitalización. El 80% de los sujetos presentaban quemaduras de 2° grado y 20% de 3° grado, el 30% requirió injerto facial. En la evaluación inicial se observó disminución de la apertura bucal vertical y horizontal, además de disminución en los movimientos de la mímica facial en la totalidad de los casos. Luego de la intervención se evidenciaron mejorías en todos los parámetros, incluido además el nivel de autopercepción de retracción pre y post terapia fonoaudiológica; todos con diferencias estadísticamente significativas (p<0,05). Los resultados nos permiten concluir que la terapia fonoaudiológica miofuncional favorece parámetros como apertura bucal y movilidad facial en pacientes con quemaduras orofaciales. La inclusión de fonoaudiólogos capacitados en el abordaje de estas personas, sería beneficioso para aminorar secuelas y beneficiar su calidad de vida.

Burns are traumatic injuries that compromise skin. Facial burns are the most complex burns, because of this area's aesthetic and functional relevance. This kind of injuries affect emotion expression and relevant processes such as vision, speech, and feeding, among others. Despite scarce evidence, it has been shown that myofunctional speech-language therapy decreases sequelae among patients with orofacial burns. This study, therefore, set out to describe the myofunctional speech-language therapy intervention in 2nd and 3rd degree facial burns. 10 patients with 2nd and 3rd degree facial burns admitted to National Burn Center in Santiago, Chile, were recruited for this study. 80% of subjects had 2nd degree burns and 20% 3rd degree burns. 30% of subjects required a facial skin graft. At initial assessment, there was a decrease in the vertical and horizontal mouth opening, as well as a decrease in facial movements in all cases. All the subjects received a myofunctional speech-language therapy intervention during the hospitalization period. On the completion of myofunctional intervention, patients improved inall parameters, with statistically significant differences (p<0,05), in addition to self-perception level of retraction pre and post therapy. The results of this study show that myofunctional speech-language therapy improves the performance in parameters such as mouth opening and facial movements among patients with orofacial burns. The inclusion of trained Speech-language therapists is helpful for interventions focused on persons with burns, inasmuch as decreases sequelae and improves quality of life.

Pulmonary rehabilitation and oropharyngeal exercises as an adjunct therapy in obstructive sleep apnea: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: It is well recognized that the most effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP). Different treatment possibilities comprise surgery, mandibular advancement, pulmonary rehabilitation, and oropharyngeal and facial exercises (PR program). However, these treatments showed inconsistent results. The purpose of the study was to compare the short-term effects of CPAP and the combination of PR program with CPAP on OSA severity, ventilatory functions, and changes in body characteristics in a newly diagnosed patient. METHODS: This study was a single-center, two-arm, parallel, randomized, controlled, open-label trial. Forty patients with OSA (20 men, 20 women, aged 54.2 ± 6.8 years) with moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea were randomized to CPAP and CPAP + PR. The PR group underwent six weeks of 60-min twice-weekly individual PR programs. The primary outcome measure was apnea/hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, and Epworth Sleepiness Scale. The secondary outcome measures were a percentage of total sleep time with oxygen saturation below 90%, body mass index (BMI), vital capacity and forced expiratory volume in 1 s (% of predicted), neck, waist, and hip circumferences. RESULTS: Five patients with OSA did not complete the program. The comparison between baseline and final assessment was made in 15 patients in the CPAP + PR group and 20 patients in the control group with CPAP only. Although OSA severity was controlled with CPAP treatment in both groups, a significant reduction of neck, waist, and hip circumferences, BMI, and improvement of pulmonary function were confirmed only in the CPAP + PR group after treatment. CONCLUSION: Treatment with CPAP combined with the PR program improved OSA patients to a greater extent than only CPAP.

Speech-language therapy program for mouth opening in patients with oral and oropharyngeal cancer undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy: a pilot study. / Programa terapêutico fonoaudiológico para abertura de boca em pacientes com câncer de boca e orofaringe em radioterapia adjuvante: estudo piloto.

Purpose Assess the effectiveness of an orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program in patients with oral or oropharyngeal cancer submitted to adjuvant radiotherapy through pre- and post-program comparison of maximum mandibular opening. Methods Prospective study involving five adult patients and five elderly patients postoperatively to oral cavity/oropharynx surgery who were awaiting the beginning of radiotherapy or had undergone fewer than five treatment sessions. The study participants had their maximum jaw opening measured using a sliding caliper at the beginning and end of the program. Two mobility exercises and three mandibular traction exercises were selected and weekly monitored presentially for 10 weeks. Descriptive data and pre- and post-therapy comparative measures were statistically analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. Results Ten patients (two women and eight men) with mean age of 58.4 years, median of 57.0 years, completed the therapeutic program. They presented mean maximum mandibular opening of 31.6 ± 11.7 and 36.4 ± 8.0 mm pre- and post-therapy, respectively (p =0.021). Conclusion The proposed orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program increased the maximum jaw opening of patients referred to adjuvant radiotherapy for oral cavity or oropharynx cancer treatment.

Effects of orofacial myofunctional therapy on masticatory function in individuals submitted to orthognathic surgery: a randomized trial.

OBJECTIVES: The esthetic and functional results of orthognathic surgery of severe dentofacial deformities are predictable, however there are differences regarding the effects on stomatognathic system. The aim was to investigate the effects of orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) on the masticatory function in individuals with dentofacial deformity submitted to orthognathic surgery (OGS). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Forty-eight individuals (18-40 years) were evaluated, 14 undergoing OMT (treated group-TG), 10 without this treatment (untreated group-UTG) and 24 in a control group with normal occlusion; for clinical aspects the data of an individual was missed (n=46). Chewing was performed using the Expanded protocol of orofacial myofunctional evaluation with scores (OMES-E). Muscle tone and mobility were also analyzed before (P0), three (P1) and six months (P2) after OGS. Surface electromyography of the masseter and temporalis muscles was performed, considering the parameters amplitude and duration of act and cycle, and the number of masticatory cycles. The OMT consisted of ten therapeutic sessions along the postoperative period. The results were compared using parametric and non-parametric tests. RESULTS: TG showed higher scores in P1 and P2 than P0; for the masticatory type the scores in P2 were significantly higher than P0. In addition, the proportion of individuals with adequate tone of lower lip and adequate tongue mobility for TG increased significantly from P1 and P2 in relation to P0. The EMG results showed a decrease in act and cycle duration in P2 in relation to P0 and P1 for the TG; furthermore the values were close to controls. An increase in the number of cycles from P0 to P2 was also observed, indicating faster chewing, which may be attributed to an improvement of balanced occlusion associated with OMT. CONCLUSION: There were positive effects of OMT on the clinical and electromyography aspects of chewing in individual submitted to orthognathic surgery.

Effects of orofacial myofunctional therapy on masticatory function in individuals submitted to orthognathic surgery: a randomized trial

Abstract Objectives: The esthetic and functional results of orthognathic surgery of severe dentofacial deformities are predictable, however there are differences regarding the effects on stomatognathic system. The aim was to investigate the effects of orofacial myofunctional therapy (OMT) on the masticatory function in individuals with dentofacial deformity submitted to orthognathic surgery (OGS). Material and Methods: Forty-eight individuals (18-40 years) were evaluated, 14 undergoing OMT (treated group-TG), 10 without this treatment (untreated group-UTG) and 24 in a control group with normal occlusion; for clinical aspects the data of an individual was missed (n=46). Chewing was performed using the Expanded protocol of orofacial myofunctional evaluation with scores (OMES-E). Muscle tone and mobility were also analyzed before (P0), three (P1) and six months (P2) after OGS. Surface electromyography of the masseter and temporalis muscles was performed, considering the parameters amplitude and duration of act and cycle, and the number of masticatory cycles. The OMT consisted of ten therapeutic sessions along the postoperative period. The results were compared using parametric and non-parametric tests. Results: TG showed higher scores in P1 and P2 than P0; for the masticatory type the scores in P2 were significantly higher than P0. In addition, the proportion of individuals with adequate tone of lower lip and adequate tongue mobility for TG increased significantly from P1 and P2 in relation to P0. The EMG results showed a decrease in act and cycle duration in P2 in relation to P0 and P1 for the TG; furthermore the values were close to controls. An increase in the number of cycles from P0 to P2 was also observed, indicating faster chewing, which may be attributed to an improvement of balanced occlusion associated with OMT. Conclusion: There were positive effects of OMT on the clinical and electromyography aspects of chewing in individual submitted to orthognathic surgery.

Programa terapêutico fonoaudiológico para abertura de boca em pacientes com câncer de boca e orofaringe em radioterapia adjuvante: estudo piloto / Speech-language therapy program for mouth opening in patients with oral and oropharyngeal cancer undergoing adjuvant radiotherapy: a pilot study

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar, por meio da comparação entre a abertura máxima mandibular, a efetividade de programa terapêutico miofuncional oral em pacientes com câncer de boca ou orofaringe submetidos à radioterapia adjuvante. Método Estudo prospectivo envolvendo cinco pacientes adultos e cinco idosos em pós-operatório de cirurgia de boca/orofaringe que aguardavam início da radioterapia ou até a quinta sessão. No início e no final do programa, os participantes tiveram suas medidas de abertura máxima mandibular mensuradas por meio de paquímetro e foram selecionados cinco exercícios - dois de mobilidade e três de tração mandibular - com controle presencial durante oito semanas, perfazendo um total de dez semanas. Dados descritivos e a comparação das medidas pré e pós-fonoterapia por meio do teste de Wilcoxon foram considerados na análise dos dados. Resultados Dez pacientes finalizaram o programa terapêutico (duas mulheres e oito homens), com média de idade de 58,4 anos, mediana de 57,0 anos. Apresentaram média de abertura máxima mandibular de 31,6 ± 11,7 mm antes do tratamento e 36,4 ± 8,0 mm no pós-terapia (p=0,021). Conclusão O programa terapêutico miofuncional oral proposto promoveu aumento da abertura máxima vertical da mandíbula de pacientes submetidos à radioterapia e/ou quimioterapia adjuvante para tratamento de câncer de boca e orofaringe.

ABSTRACT Purpose Assess the effectiveness of an orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program in patients with oral or oropharyngeal cancer submitted to adjuvant radiotherapy through pre- and post-program comparison of maximum mandibular opening. Methods Prospective study involving five adult patients and five elderly patients postoperatively to oral cavity/oropharynx surgery who were awaiting the beginning of radiotherapy or had undergone fewer than five treatment sessions. The study participants had their maximum jaw opening measured using a sliding caliper at the beginning and end of the program. Two mobility exercises and three mandibular traction exercises were selected and weekly monitored presentially for 10 weeks. Descriptive data and pre- and post-therapy comparative measures were statistically analyzed using the Wilcoxon test. Results Ten patients (two women and eight men) with mean age of 58.4 years, median of 57.0 years, completed the therapeutic program. They presented mean maximum mandibular opening of 31.6 ± 11.7 and 36.4 ± 8.0 mm pre- and post-therapy, respectively (p =0.021). Conclusion The proposed orofacial myofunctional therapeutic program increased the maximum jaw opening of patients referred to adjuvant radiotherapy for oral cavity or oropharynx cancer treatment.

Improving swallowing outcomes in patients with head and neck cancer using a theory-based pretreatment swallowing intervention package: protocol for a randomised feasibility study.

INTRODUCTION: The incidence of head and neck cancer (HNC) in the UK is rising, with an average of 31 people diagnosed daily. Patients affected by HNC suffer significant short-term and long-term post-treatment morbidity as a result of dysphagia, which affects daily functioning and quality of life (QOL). Pretreatment swallowing exercises may provide additional benefit over standard rehabilitation in managing dysphagia after primary HNC treatments, but uncertainty about their effectiveness persists. This study was preceded by an intervention development phase to produce an optimised swallowing intervention package (SIP). The aim of the current study is to assess the feasibility of this new intervention and research processes within a National Health Service (NHS) setting. METHOD AND ANALYSIS: A two-arm non-blinded randomised controlled feasibility study will be carried out at one tertiary referral NHS centre providing specialist services in HNC. Patients newly diagnosed with stage III and IV disease undergoing planned surgery and/or chemoradiation treatments will be eligible. The SIP will be delivered pre treatment, and a range of swallowing-related and QOL measures will be collected at baseline, 1, 3 and 6 months post-treatment. Outcomes will test the feasibility of a future randomised controlled trial (RCT), detailing rate of recruitment and patient acceptance to participation and randomisation. Salient information relating to protocol implementation will be collated and study material such as the case report form will be tested. A range of candidate outcome measures will be examined for suitability in a larger RCT. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval was obtained from an NHS Research Ethics Committee. Findings will be published open access in a peer-reviewed journal, and presented at relevant conferences and research meetings. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: ISRCTN40215425; Pre-results.

Efetividade de um programa de terapia miofuncional no tratamento da respiração oral em indivíduos com má oclusão dentária: ensaio clínico / Effectiveness of a myofunctional therapy program in the treatment of mouth breathing in subjects with malocclusion: a clinical trial

A impossibilidade de respirar pelo nariz leva o indivíduo a desenvolver uma respiração oral que pode gerar modificações na postura lingual, labial e mandibular, bem como desarmonia dos tecidos moles, com consequente mudança na morfologia craniofacial, induzindo à má oclusão. Poucos trabalhos científicos descreveram as propostas terapêuticas empregadas ou utilizaram exames objetivos para mensurar a efetividade do tratamento miofuncional orofacial em casos de respiração oral. Sendo assim, esta pesquisa teve como objetivo verificar a efetividade de um programa miofuncional orofacial voltado ao tratamento da função respiratória em adultos com má oclusão dentária, considerando parâmetros respiratórios e a qualidade de vida em saúde oral. Participaram da pesquisa 13 indivíduos adultos em tratamento ortodôntico com má oclusão classe II, os quais foram divididos aleatoriamente em grupo experimental (GE) (n=9) e grupo controle (GC) (n=4). Foram aplicados os protocolos de qualidade de vida em saúde oral (OHIP-14) e de Sintomas Respiratórios. Além disto, foi feita a avaliação miofuncional da função respiratória, presente no protocolo MBGR, a qual envolve o tipo e modo respiratórios, fluxo nasal e possibilidade de uso nasal. Também foram avaliadas as medidas de tempo máximo de fonação (TMF) de /s/, pico do fluxo inspiratório nasal (peak-flow) e análise da medida da área de embaçamento da placa metálica, relacionada ao fluxo nasal expiratório. Foi possível observar que, após o processo terapêutico, os pacientes do GE apresentaram melhora estatisticamente significante quanto aos sintomas respiratórios (p<0,001), escore do Protocolo MBGR (p<0,001), tipo respiratório (p=0,041), modo respiratório (p=0,029), tempo máximo de fonação (p=0,002) e pico do fluxo inspiratório nasal (p=0,002), modificando os padrões que se encontravam alterados no momento pré-terapia. Já o GC permaneceu com os aspectos funcionais e sintomáticos alterados, apresentando piora quanto aos sintomas respiratórios (p=0,003) e TMF (p=0,013). Além disto, no período pré-terapia os grupos eram semelhantes entre si, sendo que após o tratamento, estes ficaram distintos no que diz respeito aos sintomas respiratórios (p=0,047), escore do protocolo MBGR (p=0,000), TMF (p=0,010) e pico do fluxo inspiratório nasal (p=0,001). Conclui-se assim, que após a aplicação do programa de terapia miofuncional orofacial para o tratamento da respiração oral, em indivíduos com má oclusão dentária, houve melhora dos parâmetros respiratórios no que diz respeito ao tipo e modo respiratório, bem como no pico inspiratório, aumento do TMF e diminuição dos sintomas respiratórios.(AU)

The inability to breathe through the nose leads the individual to develop oral breathing that can initiate changes in lingual, labial and mandibular posture, as well as soft tissue disharmony, with consequent changes in craniofacial morphology, leading to malocclusion. Few scientific papers have described the therapeutic proposals or used objective tests to measure the effectiveness of orofacial myofunctional therapy in cases of oral breathing. Thus, this research aimed to verify the effectiveness of an orofacial myofunctional program focused to the treatment of respiratory function in adults with malocclusion, considering respiratory parameters and quality of life in oral health. A total of 13 adult individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment with Class II malocclusion were randomly divided into experimental group (EG) (n=9) and control group (CG) (n=4). Oral health Impact Profile (OHIP-14) and Respiratory Symptoms protocols were applied. In addition, the myofunctional evaluation of the respiratory function, present in the MBGR protocol was performed, which involves respiratory type and mode, nasal flow and possibility of nasal use. The measures of maximum phonation time (MPT) of /s/, inspiratory peak of the nasal flow and analysis of the measurement of the haze area of the metal plate, related to the expiratory nasal flow were also evaluated. It was possible to observe that, after the therapeutic process, the EG patients had a statistically significant improvement in respiratory symptoms (p<0.001), MBGR Protocol (p<0.001), respiratory type (p=0.041), respiratory mode (p=0.029), maximal phonation time (p=0.002) and inspiratory peak flow (p=0.002), modifying patterns that were altered at the pre-therapy period. On the other hand, the CG remained with the functional and symptomatic aspects altered, presenting worsening of respiratory symptoms (p=0.003) and MPT (p=0.013). In addition, in the pre-therapy period, the groups were similar to each other, and after treatment, these were different concerning respiratory symptoms (p=0.047), MBGR Protocol (p=0.000), MPT (p=0.010) and inspiratory peak of the nasal flow (p=0.001). As conclusion, after the application of the orofacial myofunctional therapy program for the treatment of oral breathing, in individuals with malocclusion, there was an improvement in respiratory parameters regarding respiratory type and mode, as well as inspiratory peak, increased MPT and decreased respiratory symptoms.(AU)

Efeito do tratamento fonoaudiológico após a laserterapia de baixa intensidade em pacientes com DTM: estudo descritivo / Effect of speech-language therapy after low-level laser therapy in patients with TMD: a descriptive study

RESUMO O aumento da dor/desconforto durante atividades como mastigar, falar e deglutir é comumente relatado por pacientes com Disfunção Temporomandibular (DTM) e a terapia fonoaudiológica miofuncional orofacial (TMO) tem sido proposta como parte do tratamento desta condição. Porém é uma modalidade que deve ser instituída quando o quadro de DTM e dor não está exacerbado a fim de não impedir ou dificultar a realização dos exercícios. Objetivo O objetivo deste estudo foi analisar o efeito da TMO no tratamento de pacientes com DTM, segundo o Research Diagnostic Criteria for temporomandibular disorders (RDC/TMD), após analgesia com laserterapia de baixa intensidade (LBI), quanto às condições miofuncionais orofaciais (CMO) e quanto à percepção dos sintomas de DTM. Método Transcorridos 30 dias após a finalização da LBI, cinco pacientes foram avaliados, com idades entre 50 e 61 anos. A aplicação do questionário ProDTMMulti para investigação da autopercepção da sintomatologia de DTM e do exame clínico AMIOFE (Avaliação Miofuncional Orofacial com Escores) para constatação das condições miofuncionais orofaciais foram realizados por fonoaudióloga experiente, antes e após a TMO. Resultados As CMO apresentaram aumento dos escores após TMO, indicando aumento do equilíbrio miofuncional orofacial. De acordo com a percepção das pacientes, após a TMO houve alívio dos sinais e sintomas de DTM. Conclusão A TMO instituída após a analgesia com LBI promoveu equilíbrio das funções orofaciais da amostra estudada e diminuição dos sinais e sintomas de DTM remanescentes, de acordo com a autopercepção dos indivíduos tratados.

ABSTRACT Increased pain and/or discomfort during chewing, speaking, and swallowing have been commonly reported by patients with Temporomandibular Dysfunction (TMD). Speech-language pathology therapy (orofacial myofunctional therapy - OMT) has been proposed as part of the treatment for this condition; however, it is a modality that should be introduced when the TMD context and the pain are not accentuated, so that they do not prevent or hinder the performance of exercises. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of OMT on the treatment of patients with TMD, according to the Research Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (RDC/TMD), after analgesia with low-level laser therapy (LLLT), regarding orofacial myofunctional conditions (OMC) and the perception of TMD symptoms. Five patients aged 50 to 61 years were evaluated 30 days after completion of LLLT. An experienced speech-language pathologist conducted, pre- and post-OMT, the application of the ProDTM Multi-questionnaire - to investigate the self-perception of TMD symptomatology, and the Orofacial Myofunctional Evaluation with Scores (OMES) clinical examination - to confirm the orofacial myofunctional conditions. OMC presented increased OMT scores, indicating an increase in myofunctional orofacial balance. According to the patients' perception, TMD signs and symptoms were relieved after the application of OMT. According to the self-perception of the treated patients, introduction of OMT after LLLT analgesia promoted a balance of the orofacial functions of the sample studied, as well as a decrease in the remaining TMD signs and symptoms.