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Course Description

In biology, the  matrix  is a three-dimensional network consisting of macromolecules and minerals, such as collagen and connective tissue. In the matrix of Tethered Oral Tissues (TOTs), for example, there  is a dynamic three-dimensional structure based on the works of Mills, Geddes,  Amirapu & Mirjalili (2020).   One of those dimensions is fascia. Healthy fascia is smooth and flexible. However, when the body undergoes various aspects of trauma,  the fascia may  tighten up. This can cause pain , compensatory movements or impact movements and functions.

Not only does fascia have an impact on function in patients with TOTs, but with other issues associated with Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) .There can be many manifestations of tightness in a person’s fascia. How could tightness in the hamstring impact swallowing? How could an issue with lingual fascia impact posture and alignment of the neck? Answering questions such as these are important for professionals treating OMDs and Daniel and Robyn are offering this course to support therapists in gaining a deeper understanding of these connections .

Daniel coming from the perspective of an osteopathic physician and Robyn from the lens of speech pathologist/Board Certified Orofacial Myologist® . Together they will look at the manifestations of OMDs and explain how their unique skills sets can be combined to treat the whole body with a focus on breathing, swallowing and speaking through a deeper understanding of the fascia.

DISCLAIMER: This course is appropriate for interprofessional education to include  physicians, dentists, speech-language pathologists, registered dental hygienists, physical and occupational therapists as well as other allied health professionals, but is being taught from the perspective of osteopathic and orofacial myofunctional therapy models by licensed professionals within their scopes of practice.

Learning Objectives

Participants will be able to:

1. Describe how tightness in one area of the body is connected to swallowing based on the fascia
2. List an example of how fascial restrictions impact function.
3. Name 2 therapeutic supports that can be delivered for frenectomy preparation and healing.

Instructor

Robyn Merkel-Walsh, MA, CCC-SLP,COM Instructor Bio and Financial Disclosure

Daniel Lopez, D.O. Instructor Bio and Financial Disclosure

It is highly recommended that participants review TalkTools Cancellation Policy.