The Connection Between Tongue Tie, Myofunctional Therapy, and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
While tongue tie (ankyloglossia) and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) may seem unrelated, there is a growing body of evidence suggesting an indirect connection through postural imbalances, fascial tension, breathing dysfunction, and nerve compression.
A tongue tie can contribute to poor posture, forward head positioning, and chronic muscle tension, particularly in the neck and shoulders. These issues can increase strain on the median nerve, which runs through the carpal tunnel in the wrist, potentially worsening CTS symptoms. Additionally, mouth breathing and improper tongue posture can lead to decreased oxygenation, systemic inflammation, and nerve dysfunction—all factors that may exacerbate wrist and hand pain.
What Is Myofunctional Therapy?
Myofunctional therapy is a series of exercises designed to strengthen and retrain the muscles of the tongue, face, and airway to improve breathing, swallowing, posture, and overall oral function. It is commonly used to address issues related to tongue ties, mouth breathing, TMJ dysfunction, and sleep-disordered breathing. By restoring proper muscle coordination and function, myofunctional therapy can have a positive impact on posture, nervous system balance, and overall health.
How Myofunctional Therapy Can Help
Though not a direct treatment for CTS, myofunctional therapy addresses the root causes of postural misalignment, airway dysfunction, and muscle tension that may contribute to nerve compression. By retraining the tongue, jaw, and breathing patterns, myofunctional therapy can:
✔ Improve Posture & Reduce Muscle Tension – Correcting tongue posture and strengthening oral muscles encourages proper head and neck alignment, relieving strain that may impact the nerves leading to the wrists and hands.
✔ Enhance Breathing Efficiency – Encouraging nasal breathing improves oxygenation, circulation, and tissue health, reducing inflammation that can aggravate CTS symptoms.
✔ Alleviate TMJ Dysfunction & Nerve Compression – Proper tongue function reduces jaw tension and facial strain, which can refer pain to the shoulders, arms, and wrists.
✔ Support Fascial & Neurological Balance – Since the tongue is connected to the deep front fascial line, restoring its proper function may help relieve compensatory tension patterns contributing to nerve entrapment in the arms and hands.
✔ Enhance Breathing Efficiency – Encouraging nasal breathing improves oxygenation, circulation, and tissue health, reducing inflammation that can aggravate CTS symptoms.
✔ Alleviate TMJ Dysfunction & Nerve Compression – Proper tongue function reduces jaw tension and facial strain, which can refer pain to the shoulders, arms, and wrists.
✔ Support Fascial & Neurological Balance – Since the tongue is connected to the deep front fascial line, restoring its proper function may help relieve compensatory tension patterns contributing to nerve entrapment in the arms and hands.
By addressing tongue ties, breathing dysfunction, and postural imbalances, myofunctional therapy may help reduce chronic tension, improve circulation, and alleviate symptoms of CTS over time.
Find Relief Through Functional Therapy
Dr. Jordan Balvich, a certified Buteyko provider, specializes in addressing airway health, breathing patterns, and oral function. If you suffer from CTS, TMJ dysfunction, sleep issues, or posture-related discomfort, a consultation may help determine if tongue tie release or myofunctional therapy could be beneficial.
📞 Call 219-964-4602 to schedule an evaluation today!