Providing skilled physical therapy and gentle bodywork for babies with tension and oral restrictions in the comfort of your home.
Tethered oral tissues can occur in numerous locations in the mouth, but the most common is the tongue tie, or ankyloglossia. This occurs when the band of connective tissue (frenulum) connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too tight, thick, or shortened. This decreases the tongue's normal range of motion and can cause difficulty/inability to latch or create a painful latch for mom.
There are many issues that can arise from lack of treatment, which can extend into adulthood, if not addressed appropriately. For instance, in toddlers with a tongue tie you may notice delayed speech, choking/gagging and pickiness with eating, sleeping with an open mouth, and overall frustration. It is important to identify and treat before it becomes a bigger issue that can impact health and overall development.
Physical therapy will include a full comprehensive evaluation to assess range of motion, strength, and assess for any other underlying conditions that could impact optimal feeding or development like muscle tightness and head turn preference. An extensive plan of care will be created by the therapist in conjunction with the family.
Let’s meet.
Dr. Skyler Jones, PT, DPT
When should I seek help?
Not all ties require a revision, however, if your baby is experiencing difficulty feeding, or if nursing is painful for mom, it is a good idea to consult a specialist for a complete oral functional assessment. As a parent, if your gut tells you your baby has an oral restriction, that is reason enough to seek help. Trust your instincts.
Together, we can be proactive in supporting your child’s development, in a fun and collaborative way. Early assessment and physical therapy treatment is the best form of prevention. I am passionate about providing education, and providing necessary treatment to avoid complications resulting from an untreated oral restriction.
My son, Jase, at his tongue tie resection
What could happen without proper treatment?
Reflux due to improper latch
Respiratory issues
Sleep apnea and mouth breathing
Neck tightness (torticollis)
Favoring one side resulting in plagiocephaly
Muscular tension
Face, tongue, jaw, and core weakness
Poor posture
Delayed development
Sleep difficulties
Do any of these symptoms sound familiar for mom?
Painful latch
Mastitis / plugged milk ducts
Cracked, bleeding nipples
Engorgement or oversupply
Low milk supply
Lipstick shaped nipples
