Support for Oral Motor Difficulties
“It is more common than you can imagine. You are not alone. And while you will have this the rest of your life, you can dart between the raindrops to get where you want to go, and it will not hold you back.” - Steven Spielberg, award-winning director:
Fana-Ethiopia addresses oral motor difficulties through targeted exercises and therapies designed to strengthen the muscles involved in speech and feeding, improving overall oral function.
Understanding Oral Motor Difficulties
Oral motor difficulties refer to challenges with the movement and coordination of the muscles in the mouth and face, affecting speech production, swallowing, and oral hygiene.
Causes
Oral motor difficulties can stem from various factors, including:
- Neurological conditions affecting motor control
- Muscular weakness or tone abnormalities
- Structural abnormalities in the mouth or jaw
Early Signs and Symptoms
Signs of oral motor difficulties may include:
- Poor articulation of speech sounds
- Difficulty chewing or swallowing
- Drooling beyond appropriate developmental stages
- Limited range of motion of the lips and tongue
Tests and Treatment
Diagnosing oral motor difficulties involves assessments by speech-language pathologists and other specialists. Treatment may include:
- Oral motor exercises to strengthen muscles and improve coordination
- Speech therapy to enhance speech clarity and swallowing function
- Collaborative care with other healthcare professionals, such as occupational therapists or dentists
How Fana-Ethiopia Can Help
We provide targeted exercises and therapies to address oral motor difficulties, aiming to improve speech production, swallowing function, and overall oral health. Contact us to learn more about our services for individuals with oral motor difficulties.