THERAPEUTIC DEVICE
20260124496 ยท 2026-05-07
Inventors
Cpc classification
International classification
Abstract
A therapeutic device may include an upper section, which may include an aperture, and a lower section, which may be connected to a bottom end of the upper section. The lower section may extend generally longitudinally from the upper section. The therapeutic device may include one or more textured sections on at least a portion of the upper section and/or the lower section. The therapeutic device may include a measurement scale disposed on at least a portion of the upper section and/or the lower section, and the measurement scale may span at least a portion of a length of the upper section and/or the lower section.
Claims
1. A therapeutic device, comprising: an upper section having an aperture; a lower section connected to a bottom end of the upper section, the lower section extending longitudinally from the upper section; one or more textured sections disposed on the upper section or the lower section; and a measurement scale disposed on the upper section or the lower section.
2. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the one or more textured sections are disposed on a top surface or a bottom surface of the upper section.
3. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the one or more textured sections are disposed on a bottom surface or a top surface of the lower section.
4. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the measurement scale spans at least a portion of the length of the lower section.
5. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the measurement scale is disposed on a top surface of the lower section or a bottom surface of the lower section.
6. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the upper section or the lower section includes a channel.
7. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the lower section or the upper section has rounded edges.
8. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the one or more textured sections includes at least one protrusion.
9. The therapeutic device of claim 1, wherein the therapeutic device further includes a strap connected to the upper section.
10. A method of therapy comprising: providing a therapeutic device, the therapeutic device including: an upper section having an aperture; a lower section connected to a bottom end of the upper section, the lower section extending longitudinally from the upper section; and a measurement scale disposed on the upper section or the lower section; and determining, with the therapeutic device, at least one of a cranial, cervical, or orofacial characteristic.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the at least one of the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial cranial cervical-orofacial characteristic includes at least one of: facial height, facial width, facial height-ratios, maxillary and/or mandibular width, depth, and/or height, maxillary tilt/cant, maxillary arch width, overbite, overjet, tongue length, tongue width, tongue height, lower anterior facial height, molar-vertical distance, inter-labial gap, philtrum length, hyoid-to-mentum, indicator line, vertical opening, canine-to-canine, molar-to-incisor, incisor-to-incisor, incisor show, open bite, intermolar distance, intercanine distances, retrusion, interpupillary distance, lateral protrusion, jaw protrusion, jaw retrusion, tongue range of motion, a nasal measurement, an oral measurement, an ocular measurement, anterior arch length, palatal depth, or palatal length.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the determination of the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic is made using the measurement scale.
13. The method of claim 10, further comprising: performing an oral facial exercise with the therapeutic device.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise further comprises: holding the lower section between an upper lip and a lower lip; closing the upper lip and the lower lip around the lower section; and nose-breathing.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise includes inserting at least a portion of a tongue into the aperture.
16. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise includes biting down on at least a portion of the lower section or the upper section, wherein at least one bottom molar, bottom bicuspid, bottom cuspid, or bottom incisor contacts one side of the lower section or the upper section, and at least one top molar, top bicuspid, top cuspid, or top incisor contacts an opposite side of the upper section or the lower section.
17. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise includes chewing the upper section or the lower section.
18. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise further comprises at least one of: holding the lower section under an upper lip; and rolling the lower section in an upwards direction to curl the upper lip upwards; or holding the lower section under a lower lip; and rolling the lower section in a downward direction to curl the lower lip downwards.
19. The method of claim 13, wherein the oral facial exercise includes moving the lower section or the upper section within a mouth of an individual.
20. The method of claim 17, wherein the oral facial exercise further comprises at least one of: holding the lower section between teeth; and opening a nostril while holding the lower section between the teeth; or holding the lower section between an upper lip and a lower lip; and puckering the upper lip and the lower lip around the lower section.
Description
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0027] Example embodiments will be described and explained with additional specificity and detail through the accompanying drawings in which:
[0028]
[0029]
[0030]
[0031]
[0032]
[0033]
[0034]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS
[0035] Exemplary embodiments are explained with reference to the accompanying figures. It is to be understood that the figures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of such example embodiments, and are not limiting, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale. In the figures, features with like numbers may indicate like structures and functions.
[0036]
[0037] The example therapeutic device 100 may include a lower section 110 and an upper section 120. The lower section 110 may be connected to a bottom end of the upper section 120. The lower section 110 may extend longitudinally relative to the upper section 120. The upper section 120 may include an aperture 130. The example therapeutic device 100 may include one or more textured sections 140a-140e (individually or generally referred to as the textured section 140) and/or one or more contact portions or indicia, which may include protruding and/or recessed portions, such as channels 150a-150b (individually or generally referred to as the channels 150).
[0038] In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may have a rectangular shape (e.g., as shown in
[0039] The therapeutic device 100 may be used to aid in cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial development and/or to aid in the development of nasal breathing by allowing an individual to perform oral facial exercises. For example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100 may be held, bit, or chewed on bilaterally to develop jaw muscles on both sides of the mouth and/or unilaterally to develop jaw muscles on one side of the mouth to correct unilateral chewing patterns, unilateral mastication, and/or unilateral cross malocclusion. In another example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be bit, moved, or otherwise manipulated within the mouth of the individual. Specifically, the individual may bite down on at least a portion of the lower section 110 such that at least a portion of a tooth, such as a portion of a bottom molar, bottom bicuspid, bottom cuspid, or bottom incisor, may contact a side of the lower section 110 and at least a portion of a tooth, such as a portion of a top molar, top bicuspid, top cuspid, or top incisor, contacts an opposite side of the lower section 110.
[0040] In another example, the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100 may be held under the upper lip of the individual and the lower section 110 may be rolled in an upwards direction to curl the upper lip upwards. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may be used to curl the upper lip vertically upwards and/or diagonally upwards. The lower section 110 may also be held under the lower lip of the individual and the lower section 110 may be rolled downwards to curl the lip downwards. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may be used to curl the lower lip vertically downwards and/or diagonally downwards.
[0041] In another example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100 may be held generally horizontal between one or more teeth of the individual and the individual may open and/or flare each of their nostrils while holding the lower section 110 between the teeth. This exercise may help develop the muscle that opens the nose, which may improve nasal patency.
[0042] In another example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be held between the upper lip and the lower lip of the individual, and the individual may pucker the lips around the lower section 110 (e.g., a kissing motion). In some embodiments, the individual may relax and repeat this exercise. In some embodiments, the individual may hold the pucker.
[0043] In another example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be held between an upper lip and a lower lip of an individual, the individual may close the upper lip and lower lip around the lower section 110, and the individual may breathe through their nose. This exercise may help influence nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing. This exercise may help influence nose breathing by establishing lip seal and/or cranial, cervical, and/or mandibular balance without requiring taping which may be considered unsafe for children.
[0044] In some embodiments, the individual may perform the exercises while smiling, which may help to develop facial muscles. Smiling may help to open and/or flare the nostrils and/or activate facial muscles that can increase upper airway patency, which may influence nasal breathing. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be held between the teeth and/or lips, and the individual may smile while doing so to activate cranial facial muscles that may help open and/or flare the nostrils and open the nasal passages.
[0045] In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may have rounded edges. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may have an ovular shape (e.g., as shown in
[0046] The upper section 120 may be used to aid in cranial-orofacial development and/or to aid in the development of nasal breathing by allowing an individual to perform oral facial exercises with the example therapeutic device 100. For example, at least a portion of the upper section 120 may be chewed, bit, or held bilaterally to develop jaw muscles on both sides of the mouth and/or unilaterally to develop jaw muscles on one side of the mouth to correct unilateral chewing patterns, unilateral mastication, and/or unilateral cross malocclusion. In another example, at least a portion of the upper section 120 may be bit, moved, or otherwise manipulated within the mouth of the individual. Specifically, the individual may bite down on at least a portion of the upper section 120 such that at least one tooth, such as a bottom molar, bottom bicuspid, bottom cuspid, or bottom incisor, may contact a side of the upper section 120 and at least one tooth, such as a top molar, top bicuspid, top cuspid, or top incisor, may contact an opposite side of the upper section 120.
[0047] At least a portion of the upper section 120 of the therapeutic device 100 may be held under the upper lip of the individual and the upper section 120 may be rolled in an upwards direction to curl the upper lip upwards. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may be used to curl the upper lip vertically upwards and/or diagonally upwards. At least a portion of the upper section 120 may also be held under the lower lip of the individual and the upper section 120 may be rolled downwards to curl the lower lip downwards. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may be used to curl the upper lip vertically downwards and/or diagonally downwards.
[0048] In another example, the upper section 120 may be held generally horizontal or generally vertical between the teeth of the individual, and the individual may open and/or flare each of their nostrils while holding at least a portion of the lower section 110 between the teeth. This exercise may help develop the muscle that opens the nose, which may improve nasal patency.
[0049] In another example, at least a portion of the upper section 120 may be held between the upper lip and the lower lip of the individual, and the individual may pucker the lips around at least a portion of the upper section 120 (e.g., a kissing motion). In some embodiments, the individual may relax and repeat this exercise. In some embodiments, the individual may hold the pucker.
[0050] In another example, at least a portion of the upper section 120 may be held between an upper lip and a lower lip of an individual, the individual may close the upper lip and lower lip around the upper section 120, and the individual may breathe through their nose. This exercise may help influence nasal breathing instead of mouth breathing.
[0051] In some embodiments, the individual may perform the exercises while smiling, which may help develop facial muscles. Smiling may help to open and/or flare the nostrils, which may influence nasal breathing. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the upper section 120 may be held between the teeth and/or lips, and the individual may smile while doing so to open and/or flare the nostrils and open the nasal passages.
[0052] In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may be detachable from the lower section 110 and/or the lower section 110 may be detachable from the upper section 120. For example, the upper section 120 and the lower section 110 may be connected to each other via a male-female configuration such as a tab-and recess, pin-and-hole, tongue-and-groove, key-and-keyseat, tail-and-pin, rivet-and-hole, or the like. In these and other embodiments, the upper section 120 may be mechanically separated from the lower section 110. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may be physically separated from the lower section 110. For example, the upper section 120 may be trimmed or cut away from the lower section 110 so that the upper section 120 and the lower section 110 may be utilized for oral facial exercises separately. For example, the upper section 120 may be cut away from the lower section, and, if desired, the upper section 120 may be used for tongue exercises (e.g., influencing tongue position on the palate). For instance, the upper section 120 may be detached and used to guide the tongue to the incisive papilla and/or hold the posterior portion of the tongue to the roof of mouth, which may influence lingual palatal suction. In these and other embodiments, the detached upper section 120 may be secured by a retention mechanism to inhibit choking hazards. For example, a lanyard, a cord, a string, a rope, a cable, a tube, a band, a chain, a tie, ribbon, and the like may be used to retain the detached upper section 120. In these and other embodiments, the lower section 110 may be used to perform exercises influencing lip seal, craniomandibular balance (e.g., holding the lower section 110 between the upper lip and the lower lip), and the like.
[0053] In some embodiments, the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100 may include one or more sections. For example, the lower section 110 may include one or more detachable sections, and the detachable sections may be connected to each other. For example, each section may be connected to each other via a male-female configuration such as a tab-and recess, pin-and-hole, tongue-and-groove, key-and-keyseat, tail-and-pin, rivet-and-hole, or the like. In these and other embodiments, the sections may be mechanically separated. In some embodiments, the sections may be physically separated from the lower section 110 to shorten the lower section 110. For example, the sections may be trimmed or cut away from the lower section 110 to shorten the lower section 110.
[0054] In some embodiments, the aperture 130 may connect the upper section 120 to a strap (not shown). The strap may provide retention capability to the example therapeutic device 100. In some embodiments, the strap may be adjustable in length such that the strap may be worn around the neck, the wrist, or any other portion of the body. In some embodiments, the strap may be a lanyard, a cord, a string, a rope, a cable, a tube, a band, a chain, a tie, ribbon, and the like. In some embodiments, the strap may be a break-away strap that may be disconnected from the example therapeutic device 100. For example, the strap may have break-away connections (e.g. Velcro or other fasteners) on one or more ends that may be connected and disconnected from the example therapeutic device 100.
[0055] In some embodiments, multiple apertures 130 may be included. For example, a first aperture and a second aperture may be included. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may include one aperture 130 and the lower section 120 may include another aperture 130. For example, the upper section 120 may include a first aperture and the lower section may include a second aperture, and the lower section 110 may be connected to the strap via the second aperture. In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may include multiple apertures 130. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may include multiple apertures 130. An example of a therapeutic device having multiple apertures is illustrated and described with respect to
[0056] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the aperture 130 may be at least partially defined by an inner portion of the upper section 120. For example, the upper section 120 may have a circular shape and the aperture 130 may be at least partially defined by an inner diameter of the upper section 120. One of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate, after reviewing this disclosure, that the aperture 130 may have other suitable shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements. For example, the aperture 130 may be ovular (such as shown in
[0057] The aperture 130 may be used to aid in cranial-orofacial (e.g., mandibular) development and/or to aid in the development of nasal-breathing by allowing an individual to perform oral facial exercises with the example therapeutic device 100. For example, the individual may insert at least a portion of the tongue into the aperture 130 and/or manipulate the tongue within the aperture 130. These oral facial exercises may develop tongue shape, strength, and/or memory, which may aid in the development of nasal breathing because the individual may develop tongue characteristics that properly position the tongue on the palate during breathing. These exercises may also influence cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial function, development, and/or growth.
[0058] In some embodiments, the lower section 110 may include one or more textured sections 140. For example, the lower section 110 may include a first textured section 140a, a second textured section 140b, a third textured section 140c, a fourth textured section 140d, and a fifth textured section 140e. In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may include protrusions and/or recesses such as bumps, lines, arrows, bristles, cuboids, parallelepipeds, and the like. For example, the first textured section 140a, the third textured sections 140c, and the fifth textured section 140e, such as shown in
[0059] In these and other embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may provide sensory feedback and/or guidance to a user. For example, the user may utilize the textured sections 140 to determine the location of the example therapeutic device 100 within the mouth of the user. For example, the user may be able to differentiate between the first textured section 140a, the second textured section 140b, the third textured section 140c, the fourth textured section 140d, and/or the fifth textured section 140e based on the different textures and placement of the textured sections 140. The one or more textured sections 140 may be used to encourage tongue lateralization, encourage protrusion, and/or to stimulate the sides of the tongue, the cranial nerves, the mouth, the lips, and/or the palate. After reviewing this disclosure, one skilled in the art will understand that the example therapeutic device 100 may include any suitable number of textured sections 140 and the textured sections may be disposed in any suitable portions of the therapeutic device 100.
[0060] In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be at least partially disposed on a bottom surface of the lower section 110. In these and other embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be at least partially disposed on a top surface of the lower section 110, and the top surface may be opposite the bottom surface. In these and other embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be at least partially disposed on a top surface of the upper section 120. In these and other embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be at least partially disposed on a bottom surface of the upper section 120, and the bottom surface may be opposite the top surface.
[0061] In some embodiments, the therapeutic device 100 may include contact portions and/or indicia such as the channels 150. The channels 150 may be recesses within the lower section 110 and/or the upper section 120, and the channels may have different shapes, sizes, configurations, and/or arrangements depending, for example, upon the intended use of the therapeutic device 100. In some embodiments, multiple channels may be included. For example, the therapeutic device 100 may include a first channel 150a on the bottom surface of the lower section 110, a second channel 150b on the bottom surface of the upper section, and a third channel 150c on the upper surface of the upper section 120. The channels 150 may be at least partially disposed on bottom and/or top surfaces of the lower section 110 and/or bottom and/or top surfaces of the upper section 120.
[0062] The channels 150 may be sized and configured to receive liquids, fluids, flavorings, etc., which may facilitate patient engagement with the therapeutic device 100. For example, lemon flavoring may be disposed in the channels 150a, 150b, and/or 150c. In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may allow the example therapeutic device 100 to retain flavors. For example, the therapeutic device 100 may be dipped in lemon flavoring, and the one or more textured sections 140 may retain the flavor to facilitate patient engagement with the therapeutic device 100. In some embodiments, the example therapeutic device 100 may be soaked in liquids, fluids, and/or flavorings. For example, the example therapeutic device 100 may be constructed from wood, dipped in lemon flavoring, and the wood may absorb and retain the flavor. In some instances, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be wrapped in foods such as fruit leather or spreads (e.g., peanut butter, Nutella) to provide different tastes and/or textures.
[0063] In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be at least partially disposed within one or more of the channels 150. For example, as shown in
[0064] In some embodiments, the lower section 110 and/or the upper section 120 may be made from materials such as silicone, plastic, thermoplastics, wood, paper, rubber, polyurethane, polypropylene, thermoplastic elastomer, or bamboo, among other suitable materials. The lower section 110 and/or the upper section 120 may also be constructed from other materials with desired characteristics, including natural and/or manmade materials. In some embodiments, the materials utilized to construct the lower section 110 and/or the upper section 120 may be at least substantially free of Bisphenol A (BPA), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), lead, phthalates, and/or latex. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 may be made of materials having a hardness greater than or equal to about 30 on the Shore A scale. In some embodiments, the materials may have a hardness greater than or equal to about 30, about 35, about 40, about 45, about 50, about 55, or about 60 on the Shore A scale. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 may have about the same hardness on the Shore A scale. In some embodiments, the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 may have different hardnesses on the Shore A scale. For example, the lower section 110 may have a Shore A hardness of about 35 while the upper section 120 may have a Shore A hardness of about 30 or vice versa.
[0065] In some embodiments, the example therapeutic device 100 may be frozen, cooled, and/or heated to activate temperature sensations in the user. For example, the therapeutic device 100 may be placed in warm liquid and/or placed in the refrigerator or freezer before use.
[0066]
[0067] The measurement scale 160 may be located on the bottom and/or top surface of the lower section 110 and/or the bottom and/or top surface of the upper section 120. For example, the measurement scale 160 may be included on the top surface of the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 in inches and the bottom surface of the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 in centimeters.
[0068] In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 may be located on a surface of the lower section 110 and the measurement scale 160 may be located on another surface of the lower section 110. For example, the measurement scale 160 may be on the top surface of the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 and the one or more textured sections 140 may be included on the bottom of the surface of the lower section 110. In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 140 and the measurement scale 160 may be located on the same surface of the upper section 120 and/or lower section 110.
[0069] In some embodiments, one or more hash marks may be included on the measurement scale 160. In some embodiments, the one or more hash marks may form at least one of the textured sections 140 and the one or more hash marks may provide measurement capability. In some embodiments, the hash marks may not have a raised surface, and/or the hash marks may be flat. In some embodiments, the hash marks may be recessed into a surface of the lower section 110 and/or the upper section 120.
[0070] As shown in
[0071] In some embodiments, the measurement scale 160 may be used to determine a cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic. In some embodiments, the cranial cervical-orofacial characteristic may include facial height, facial width, facial height-ratios, maxillary and/or mandibular width, depth, and/or height, maxillary tilt/cant, maxillary arch width, overbite, overjet, tongue length, tongue width, tongue height, lower anterior facial height, molar-vertical distance, inter-labial gap, philtrum length, hyoid-to-mentum distance, indicator line, vertical opening, canine-to-canine, molar-to-incisor, incisor-to-incisor, incisor show, open bite, intermolar distance, intercanine distances, retrusion, interpupillary distance, lateral protrusion, jaw protrusion, jaw retrusion, tongue range of motion, a nasal measurement, an oral measurement, an ocular measurement, anterior arch length, palatal depth, and/or palatal length, among other cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics. In some embodiments, cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics may include facial characteristics, oral characteristics, mandibular characteristics, characteristics corresponding to the head and/or skull, and/or characteristics corresponding to the neck and/or spine. Additionally, or alternatively, postural measurements, spinal measurements, and/or other bodily assessment measurements may be determined, and/or non-bodily measurements may be determined using the therapeutic device 100.
[0072] In some embodiments, the upper section 120 may include one or more channels 150. For example, the upper section 120 may include the second channel 150b, such as shown in
[0073] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the example therapeutic device 100 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the designations of different elements in the manner described is meant to help explain concepts herein and is not limiting. Further, the example therapeutic device 100 may include any number of other elements or may be implemented within other systems or contexts than those described. For example, the upper section 120 may include the one or more textured sections 140. In some embodiments, both the lower section 110 and the upper section 120 may include the one or more textured sections 140. In some embodiments, the aperture 130 may be omitted. In some embodiments, the textured sections 140, the channels 150, and/or the measurement scale 160 may be omitted.
[0074] While described as being included on a top surface and/or a bottom surface of the therapeutic device 100, it will be appreciated that the one or more textured sections 140, the one or more channels 150, and/or the measurement scale 160 may be included on a first surface and/or a second surface of the therapeutic device 100 that is different than the first surface according to the particular shape of the therapeutic device 100.
[0075] The therapeutic device 100 may include any of the features described with respect to the therapeutic device 200 shown in
[0076]
[0077] The example therapeutic device 200 may include a lower section 210 and an upper section 220, which may each be similar to, include similar features as, and/or perform similar functions as the lower section 210 and the upper section 120 described with respect to
[0078] As illustrated in
[0079] In some embodiments, the channels 250 may be separated from one another. For example, one or more of the channels 250 may be separated by walls and/or other features. For example, the first channel 250a may be separated from the second channel 250b by a first wall 252a, the second channel 250b and the third channel 250c may be separated by a second wall 252b, and the third channel 250c may be separated from the fourth channel 250d by a portion of the lower section 210. In these and other embodiments, the separation of channels 250 may allow for different reservoirs to be created in the therapeutic device 200, which may allow for different liquids, fluids, and/or flavorings to be used in conjunction with oral facial exercises. In these and other embodiments, the channels 250 may be sized and configured similarly or differently. For example, a height between the floor (e.g., a base) of the channels 250 and the top of the channels 250 may be different or the same. Additionally, or alternatively, the lengths and/or widths of the channels 250 may be different or the same. In these and other embodiments, the channels 250 may have the same or different volumetric capacities for holding liquids, fluids, and/or flavorings.
[0080] In these and other embodiments, a channel 250 may include one or more of the textured sections 240. For example, the first channel 250a may include the first textured section 240a and the second textured section 240b. In some embodiments, a channel 250 may include a single textured section 240. For example, the second channel 250b may include only the third textured section 240c. In some embodiments, a channel 250 may include no textured sections 240. For example, the fourth channel 250d may not include a textured section 240.
[0081] Additionally, or alternatively, the separation of channels 250 may provide sensory feedback and/or guidance to a user to determine what part of the therapeutic device 200 is being used during an oral facial exercise. For example, the walls 252 may function similarly to the textured sections 240 and/or may be considered to be part of a textured section 240.
[0082] As illustrated in
[0083] In some embodiments, the second aperture 232 may be oriented differently than the first aperture 230. For example, as illustrated in
[0084] In some embodiments, the strap described with respect to
[0085] In some embodiments, and as mentioned previously, the second aperture 232 may be positioned at a connection point between the lower section 210 and the upper section 220. In these and other embodiments, the lower section 210 and the upper section 220 may be detachable from one another. In these and other embodiments, the lower section 210 may include the second aperture 232 when detached from the upper section 220, and the upper section 220 may include the first aperture 230. In these and other embodiments, the first aperture 230 may be used for retention (e.g., with a first strap) of the upper section 220, and the second aperture 232 may be used for retention (e.g., with a second strap) of the lower section 210.
[0086] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the example therapeutic device 200 without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the designations of different elements in the manner described is meant to help explain concepts and is not limiting. Further, the example therapeutic device 200 may include any number of other elements or may be implemented within other systems or contexts than those described. For example, the upper section 220 may include the one or more textured sections 240 and/or channels 250. In some embodiments, both the lower section 210 and the upper section 220 may include one or more textured sections 240 and/or channels 250. In some embodiments, the first aperture 230 and/or the second aperture 232 may be omitted. In some embodiments, the one or more textured sections 240, the channels 250, and/or the measurement scale 260 may be omitted.
[0087] While described as being included on a top surface and/or a bottom surface of the therapeutic device, it will be appreciated that the one or more textured sections 240, the one or more channels 250, and/or the measurement scale 260 may be included on a first surface and/or a second surface of a therapeutic device that is different than the first surface according to the particular shape of the therapeutic device 200. Moreover, the therapeutic device 200 may include any of the features described with respect to the therapeutic device 100.
[0088]
[0089] At block 302, a therapeutic device is provided. In some embodiments, the therapeutic device may include an upper section having an aperture, a lower section connected to a bottom end of the upper section and extending longitudinally from the upper section. A measurement scale may be included on a surface, such as at least a portion of the upper section and/or the lower section. In some embodiments, the therapeutic device may be the example therapeutic device 100 described previously with respect to
[0090] At block 304, at least one of a cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may be at least partially determined with the therapeutic device. In some embodiments, the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may include facial height, facial width, facial height-ratios, maxillary and/or mandibular width, depth, and/or height, maxillary tilt/cant, maxillary arch width, overbite, overjet, tongue length, tongue width, tongue height, lower anterior facial height, molar-vertical distance, inter-labial gap, philtrum length, hyoid-to-mentum, indicator line, vertical opening, canine-to-canine, molar-to-incisor, incisor-to-incisor, incisor show, open bite, intermolar distance, intercanine distances, retrusion, interpupillary distance, lateral protrusion, jaw protrusion, jaw retrusion, tongue range of motion, a nasal measurement, an oral measurement, an ocular measurement, anterior arch length, palatal depth, and/or palatal length, among other cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics. In some embodiments, the determination of the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may be made using the measurement scale. For example, the determination of the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may be made using the measurement scale 160 of the therapeutic device 100 or the measurement scale 260 of the therapeutic device 200. Additionally, or alternatively, postural measurements, spinal measurements, and/or other bodily assessment measurements may be determined, and/or non-bodily measurements may be determined using the therapeutic device 100, 200.
[0091] In some embodiments, the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may be entered into an application on a user device, and the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic may be tracked by the individual. The measurements of the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic in the application on the user device may be utilized to monitor the cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial development over time.
[0092] At block 306, an oral facial exercise may be performed with the therapeutic device. In some embodiments, an oral facial exercise may include cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial exercises that may have therapeutic benefits or other benefits for cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial features.
[0093] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include inserting at least a portion of a tongue into the aperture. For example, at least a portion of the tongue could be inserted into the aperture 130 of the upper section 120 in the example therapeutic device 100 or the first aperture 230 of the upper section 220 in the example therapeutic device 200.
[0094] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include biting down on at least a portion of the lower section and/or the upper section. In these and other embodiments, one or more teeth, such as a bottom molar, bottom bicuspid, bottom cuspid, and/or bottom incisor, may contact one side of the upper section and/or the lower section of the therapeutic device, and one or more teeth, such as a top molar, top bicuspid, top cuspid, and/or top incisor, may contact an opposite side of the upper section or the lower section. For example, the user may bite down on the upper section 120 and/or the lower section 110 of the example therapeutic device 100 or the user may bite down on the upper section 220 and/or the lower section 210 of the example therapeutic device 200.
[0095] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include chewing at least a portion of the upper section and/or the lower section of the therapeutic device 100, 200. For example, the user may chew at least a portion of the upper section 120 and/or the lower section 110 of the example therapeutic device 100 or the user may chew at least a portion of the upper section 220 and/or the lower section 210 of the example therapeutic device 200.
[0096] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include holding at least a portion of the lower section under an upper lip and rolling the lower section in an upwards direction to curl the upper lip upwards. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower section may be used to curl the upper lip vertically upwards and/or diagonally upwards. In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include holding at least a portion of the lower section under a lower lip and rolling the lower section in a downward direction to curl the lower lip downwards. In some embodiments, at least a portion of the lower section may be used to curl the upper lip vertically downwards and/or diagonally downwards. For example, either of these exercises may be performed with the lower section 110 of the example therapeutic device 100 and/or the lower section 210 of the therapeutic device 200.
[0097] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include moving at least a portion of the upper section and/or the lower section within the mouth of an individual. For example, a user may move or otherwise manipulate the upper section 120 and/or the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100 within their mouth or the user may move or otherwise manipulate the upper section 220 and/or the lower section 210 within their mouth.
[0098] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include holding at least a portion of the lower section between an upper lip and a lower lip, closing the upper lip and the lower lip around the lower section, and nose-breathing. For example, the user may hold at least a portion of the lower section 110 between their lips, close their lips around the lower section 110, and nose breathe or the user may hold at least a portion of the lower section 210 between their lips, close their lips around the lower section 210, and nose breathe. This may help influence nose-breathing by establishing lip seal and craniomandibular balance without requiring taping.
[0099] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include holding at least a portion of the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100, 200 between teeth and opening the nostrils while holding the lower section between the teeth. For example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 or the lower section 210 may be held between the teeth of an individual and the individual may activate nasal breathing and cranial facial muscles that help open the nose and optimize the upper airway while holding the lower section between their teeth.
[0100] In some embodiments, the oral facial exercise may include holding at least a portion of the lower section 110 of the therapeutic device 100, 200 between an upper lip and a lower lip and puckering the lips around the lower section. For example, at least a portion of the lower section 110 may be held between the lips of an individual, and the individual may pucker their lips around the lower section 110 or at least a portion of the lower section 210 may be held between the lips of an individual and the individual may pucker their lips around the lower section 210.
[0101] Modifications, additions, or omissions may be made to the method 300 without departing from the scope of the disclosure. For example, the designations of different elements in the manner described is meant to help explain concepts described herein and is not limiting. Further, the method 300 may include any number of other elements or may be implemented within other systems or contexts than those described.
[0102] For example, block 304 may be omitted and the therapeutic device 100, 200 may be utilized to perform oral facial exercises without cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics being determined. In some embodiments, block 306 may be omitted and the therapeutic device 100, 200 may be utilized to determine cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics without oral facial exercises being performed. Additionally or alternatively, postural measurements, spinal measurements, and/or other bodily assessment measurements may be determined and/or non-bodily measurements may be determined using the therapeutic device.
EXAMPLE EXERCISES
[0103] The following therapeutic exercises (e.g., oral facial exercises) may be performed in conjunction with and/or using the example therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure. In some instances, humming, swallowing, vocalizing, visual tracking, balancing (e.g., on one leg), planking, squatting, standing, and/or other sensorimotor functions may be performed in conjunction with the oral facial exercises described throughout the disclosure to build neural networks and/or neuroplasticity.
[0104] As described previously, performance of oral exercises, such as with the therapeutic device described throughout the disclosure, may improve breathing, orofacial function and sleep issues such as snoring, sleep-disordered breathing and obstructive sleep apnea. For example, a systematic review and meta-analysis found that-orofacial myofunctional therapy may improve moderate sleep apnea 50% in children and 62% in adults (Camacho, M 2015). Another study indicated that a breath hold time tested in the day may be indicative of high loop gain at night which is common in central sleep apnea and considered connected with body chemistry (Messineo, L 2018). Another study of more than 11,000 children looked at impacts and red flags of sleep disordered breathing (Bonuck, K 2012). A 2017 study by Zaffanello et al. suggested connections with obstructive sleep-disordered breathing, enuresis, and combined disorders in children.
[0105] Moreover, the therapeutic devices described may be used in conjunction with assessment and screening tools such as Functional AIRway Evaluation Screening Tools (FAIREST) which may use the therapeutic devices in at least a portion of the assessments performed using FAIREST.
[0106] Smiling: In some instances, smiling while performing oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises with the therapeutic devices described may aid in toning the airway. Smiling may activate 53 or more facial muscles, may activate the diaphragm and the body's filtration system to defend the respiratory system, may open the nostrils, and/or may cause the brain to release neuropeptides to help combat stress. Moreover, other neurotransmitters may be released by the brain such as dopamine, serotonin, and/or endorphins during use of the therapeutic device.
[0107] The placement of the therapeutic device as well as the type and/or intensity of the oral facial exercises may be adjusted for different outcomes. For example, clenching with varied intensity to hold onto the therapeutic device while performing daily activities (e.g., working) may help an individual with open mouth posture or low tone adopt healthy cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial tone and/or orofacial rest posture. Smiling using the therapeutic device may itself be considered an oral facial exercise and/or may be performed in conjunction with another oral facial or therapeutic exercise as a variation of the oral facial exercise.
[0108] Kissing: In some instances, an individual may hold an end of the therapeutic device and squeeze their lips around the therapeutic device in a pucker. In some instances, the therapeutic device may be held horizontally between the teeth while holding a pucker. Performing these kissing motions may help bring the lips together to develop lip seal and/or move the jaws and face in a forward direction, which may mobilize cranial structures important in expanding the palate, jaws, and/or face. Additionally, or alternatively, performing these kissing motions may improve tone as these motions may activate nerves including the trigeminal nerve. These kissing motions using the therapeutic device may be considered an oral facial exercise and/or the kissing motions may be performed in conjunction with another oral facial or therapeutic exercise as a variation of the oral facial exercise.
[0109] In these and other instances, kissing motions may be performed while lying prone. In some instances, the tongue may protrude out of the mouth and placed above or below the therapeutic device while laying prone. In these and other instances, the therapeutic device may be placed along the median sulcus of the tongue to encourage lingual cupping and/or the therapeutic device may be pressed up along the palate. The orientation of the therapeutic device may be chosen by the individual and/or a clinician depending on personal preferences, sensory needs, motor needs, and/or desired therapeutic effect.
[0110] Nasal Flare: In some instances, the nostrils may be flared when the therapeutic device is being used for an oral facial exercise and/or other therapeutic exercises. This may activate the anatomy that opens the nose and may improve nasal patency. In these and other instances, a mirror may be used so an individual may watch and use their fingers to assist during the exercise. In some instances, this may be combined with smiling, raising eyebrows, kissing exercises, and/or vocalization exercises.
[0111] Jaw Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include jaw exercises. Chewing may encourage circulation, lymphatic flow, and/or drainage of the eustachian tubes, and the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may be chewed on to obtain one or more of these benefits.
[0112] In some instances, the jaw exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices may improve jaw function, growth, stability, and/or symmetry. In some instances, the therapeutic devices described throughout the disclosure may be chewed. For instance, the therapeutic device may be chewed according to different movements and/or intensities. For example, the therapeutic device may be chewed side-to-side laterally, front to back protrusively, and/or in circular motions such as with rotary chew. The bounce and rebound of the therapeutic device may help with lubrication of the temporomandibular joints, may help to absorb shock, and/or may decrease stiffness and swelling.
[0113] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be held horizontally between the front teeth with the mouth in a relaxed open position, the lower jaw may then be protruded forward to a final position, at the final position the individual may bite down on the therapeutic device and slide the lower jaw back to the initial position. The individual may then relax and repeat the exercise.
[0114] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be held longitudinally (from the front of the mouth to the back like a drinking straw) between the front teeth in a relaxed open position, the lower jaw may be moved laterally or sideways to a final position, at the final position the individual may bite down on the therapeutic device, and slide the lower jaw back to the initial position. The individual may then relax and repeat the exercise.
[0115] Tongue Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include tongue exercises. For example, the therapeutic device may be used as a tongue guide and/or to provide resistance to the tongue. For instance, the therapeutic device may be used to add resistance against various movements of the tongue.
[0116] As another example, the therapeutic device may be mobilized against the left and/or right sides of the tongue as sensory stimulation and/or resistance. In some instances, the therapeutic may be lightly dragged along the sides of the tongue from the back of the tongue to the tip of the tongue or vice versa and the gag reflex may be used as a stopping point. This exercise may help develop oral pressure management.
[0117] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to influence tongue shape. For example, the tongue may be used to locate any portion of the therapeutic device such as the textured sections and/or the apertures with the individual narrowing their tongue to do so. This exercise may help influence tongue tone and functions such as narrowing and/or protrusion which may improve genioglossus function and/or influence airway patency.
[0118] In some instances, the individual may trace shapes on the therapeutic device using their tongue. In some instances, the individual may widen their tongue along the therapeutic device. In some instances, lingual cupping may be influenced by pressing and/or dragging the therapeutic device along the middle of the tongue to encourage the tongue to cup and wrap around the therapeutic device.
[0119] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to direct tongue movements such as side to side, diagonally, and/or up and down. In some instances, if one side of the tongue is weaker, the individual may use the textured sections to rub along the weaker side to stimulate that portion of the tongue to contract and/or activate.
[0120] In some instances, the user may move the tongue in and out of the mouth and use the therapeutic device to add resistance. In some instances, the user may balance the therapeutic device on their tongue. In some instances, the user may rub the textured sections of the therapeutic device along their tongue to stimulate and encourage the tongue to move.
[0121] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be bitten down upon while the user swallows. This exercise may train the user to swallow with soft lips while allowing the tongue to do most of the work, which may encourage more efficient swallowing.
[0122] In some instances, the tongue exercises described above may allow for the tracking and identification of apraxia in tongue movements. In some instances, any of the above exercises may be performed with smiling to target muscles such as the stylopharyngeus, which may improve breathing, sleep, decrease pharyngeal collapsibility, and/or help move tonsils out of the airway.
[0123] Lips, Frenum, Cheeks, and/or Buccal Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include lip, frenum, cheeks, and/or buccal exercises. In some embodiments, an individual may hold the therapeutic device between their teeth horizontally with the lips sealed around the lower section, the jaw in a neutral position, and the tongue resting up above the lower section along the palate with the tip forward behind the front teeth in the area of the incisive papilla with the middle and back of the tongue resting lightly or gently suctioned up along the palate. This exercise may be performed to develop nasal breathing and/or lip seal. In these and other instances, the exercises may be performed while doing daily activities such as watching television, listening to music, among other activities.
[0124] In these and other instances, multiple therapeutic devices may be used. For example, a first therapeutic device may be used between the teeth and lips to cue closure while another therapeutic device may be used with the upper section over the incisive papilla to guide the front or various portions of the tongue.
[0125] In some of these exercises or other exercises, a pad of the finger may be placed under the chin near the back but not touching the throat to add pressure to assist in bringing the jaw, lips, and/or tongue into a balanced posture. This pressure may be held for between 5-10 seconds. The pressure may be slowly increased to help suction the tongue along the roof or palate, which may help keep the jaw in the neutral position and stabilize the airway.
[0126] In some instances, the individual may puff their cheeks out and/or fill their mouths with liquid, and the therapeutic device may be tapped against the cheeks to test the strength of the hold and/or to encourage the individual to hold pressure with the air or liquid in their mouth.
[0127] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be held between the lips or teeth during swallowing to train the lips to relax during swallowing movements.
[0128] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be held between the lips or teeth and an individual may walk while balancing an object (e.g., a coin) on the therapeutic device. The object may be replaced with heavier objects as the individual develops jaw strength. This exercise may be performed with quiet and calm nasal breathing to inhibit movement of the object. This exercise may help with whole body posture and/or may help encourage healthy jaw posture by coordinating with movement.
[0129] In some instances, the face may be lightly touched with the therapeutic device around the lips to assess whether the head turns and the mouth opens in infants. This exercise may be used to stimulate and/or develop the rooting reflex in infants, which may improve infant feeding.
[0130] Myofunctional Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include myofunctional exercises. For example, craniofacial muscles may be toned and trained through the various oral facial exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic device.
[0131] As an example, biting down or closing the jaw on the therapeutic device may allow for shortening of a muscle or tissue while controlling the release of the bite may influence lengthening of the muscle or tissue. Moreover, the therapeutic device may be used to vary the resistance against these muscle contractions, which may allow for strengthening of the facial muscles. The therapeutic device may be used for variable time intervals to help develop long twitch muscle fibers, which may help build endurance, particularly in those who tend toward a slouched and/or open mouth and/or low tongue posture.
[0132] In some instances, some muscles may be contracted during an exercise while others may be relaxed. For example, contract-relax variations of an oral facial exercise may be used to relax one muscle like the suboccipital muscles at the base of the skull that may extend the neck and open the mouth and contracting against muscles that do the opposite such as those that close the lips, jaws, and/or mouth and encourage neck flexion.
[0133] In some instances, the therapeutic devices may encourage proprioceptive and neuromuscular facilitation in oral facial exercises by stimulating the proprioceptors in muscle and fascia and stimulating neuromuscular pathways, which may be associated with particular movements. As an example, diagonal movement patterns during oral facial exercises may encourage proprioceptive and neuromuscular facilitation. In some instances, reciprocal inhibition techniques may be performed using the therapeutic device, which may include causing a muscle on one side of a joint to relax when the opposing muscle contracts. For example, when contracting the jaw muscles to move the mandible to the right, the opposing muscles may relax to allow the motion to occur.
[0134] Cranial, Mandibular and Orofacial Myofunctional Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include cranial, mandibular, and/or orofacial myofunctional exercises. For example, the therapeutic devices may be used to improve function and/or muscular strength of facial muscles, mouth muscles, and the tongue, may improve the resting posture of the tongue and lips, may develop correct swallowing and/or chewing patterns, and/or may decrease parafunction and/or dysfunctional habits.
[0135] For example, dysfunctional habits may include lip biting, clenching, thumb or finger sucking, pacifier use, open mouth and low tongue posture, among other dysfunctional habits. The therapeutic device may be used as a substitute to these dysfunctional habits to allow the individual to focus on these habits and/or to help reduce these parafunctions.
[0136] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to address tongue tie, which is when the lingual frenum connecting the tongue to the floor of the mouth is restricted. In these instances, the therapeutic device may be used to roll under and lift and/or lengthen the tongue. The therapeutic device may also be used to encourage the tongue to stay up along the palate which may help lengthen the lingual frenulum. For example, the therapeutic device may be held between the teeth while elevating and lengthening the tongue up over the therapeutic device up along the palate.
[0137] In some instances, myofunctional exercises and/or oral myofunctional exercises may help with oral dysfunction, which may help make orthodontic treatment more successful. In some instances, myofunctional exercises and/or oral myofunctional exercises may decrease the need for orthodontic interventions by lessening chronic oral motor dysfunction which has been associated with malocclusion. (D'Onofrio L, 2019)
[0138] Sensory Neuro Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include sensory neuro exercises. In these and other embodiments, oral facial exercises may be performed in conjunction with integrative sensory stimulation or nervous system regulation. In some instances, the therapeutic devices may allow for both a similar and varied sensory experience when oral facial exercises are performed. For example, one surface of the therapeutic device may include one or more textures while another surface may be smooth.
[0139] In some instances, the therapeutic device may provide sensory input to the head, neck, face, jaw, lips, mouth, and/or hands that are holding the therapeutic device. In these and other instances, the therapeutic device may engage receptors in the soft tissues with different types of touch. For example, the touches that may be provided with the therapeutic device may include light touch (e.g., gentle brush on the soft tissues), discriminative touch (e.g., precise identification of an object's texture and location), pressure touch, vibration applied to the therapeutic device while used intraorally, on the skin or soft tissues, stretch (e.g., feeling of soft tissues or muscle being pulled by the therapeutic device), texture detection, and/or differentiation between food and/or non-food in the channels of the therapeutic device.
[0140] In some instances, a visual example of an exercise may be provided for the individual to emulate using the therapeutic device. For instance, an individual may use a picture of a dog biting a bone to have the individual emulate the picture with the therapeutic device. Another example is performing visual exercises like tracking with the therapeutic device. These exercises may create stability of the mandible and/or lower cranium while the eye muscles pull on the associated ocular structures.
[0141] In these and other instances, the individual or the clinical professional may select a smooth or textured surface of the device (e.g., with raised features for various sensory input or guidance) to encourage movement in different directions like tongue lateralization and protrusion. In these and other instances, short, thin, projections (e.g., bristles) may be used to stimulate the sides of the tongue and/or various cranial nerves or sensations in the mouth, palate, face, among other craniofacial features.
[0142] In these and other instances, the size, sequence, and/or organization of the one or more textured sections of the therapeutic device may provide sensory input and may attract, and/or guide the tongue, which can shape to the textured sections.
[0143] In these and other instances, the therapeutic device may be constructed of various materials, colors, shapes, and/or likenesses to increase appeal to the individual and/or increase engagement with the device. For example, visual senses may be activated with color, smell may be activated by dipping the therapeutic device with odorous media such as garlic or lemon, and/or taste senses may be activated by applying flavor to the therapeutic device and/or applying foods such as spreads and/or fruit leather to the therapeutic device.
[0144] In some instances, various sensory inputs may be engaged by applying pressure with the therapeutic device to various parts of the face, mouth, neck, and/or jaw. In some instances, the therapeutic device may be cooled, frozen, and/or heated to activate temperature senses.
[0145] In these and other instances, stereognosis may be activated through the user attempting to identify numbers, shapes, and/or textures on the therapeutic device using the sense of touch alone and without the aid of vision.
[0146] In some instances, proprioceptors may be engaged by the user holding the therapeutic device between the front teeth, such as moving the end of the therapeutic device up or down relative to the horizontal bite line, and having the user identify in which direction the therapeutic device was mobilized.
[0147] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to touch or trace different patterns on the face, in the mouth, and/or on the tongue while the user's eyes are closed, and the user may identify what and where was touched and/or may attempt to trace the same pattern.
[0148] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used with and/or without food and/or flavors and the individual may identify the different food and/or flavors used on the therapeutic device and/or when the therapeutic device does not have food associated with the therapeutic device.
[0149] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used while the individual performs rhythmic bouncing (e.g., to a beat), which may engage the vestibular system and central pattern generators, stimulate and/or integrate reflexes, increase parasympathetic activity, and/or stimulate cranial nerves and/or neuroplasticity. For example, the individual may perform physical exercise such as bouncing on a physio ball to the beat of a song while using the therapeutic device. These physical exercises in conjunction with oral facial exercises, for example, may increase neuroplasticity, which may be significant in brain rehabilitation (Kumar J, et al. 2023).
[0150] Speech Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include speech exercises. For example, when saying alveolar consonants like TDNLSZ, the tip of the tongue should touch the alveolar ridges near the front of the palate, and the upper section of the therapeutic device may be placed there to help create a target providing sensory input during this speech exercise.
[0151] As another example, the individual may hold the therapeutic device below the jaw to cue stabilization and/or may hold the therapeutic device between the teeth in varying intensities while doing speech exercises where the jaw should be stable such as saying the vowel oo followed by ee.
[0152] As another example, the therapeutic device may improve the ability to vocalize sounds by holding the therapeutic device in front of the lips as a target for the lips to move towards while saying sounds like ch and sh.
[0153] As mentioned previously, the therapeutic devices may be used directly and/or indirectly to influence the tongue and oropharyngeal anatomy and/or neuroplasticity. For example, the therapeutic device may be held along the back of the palate to encourage posterior tongue suction or elevation.
[0154] Teeth Occlusion Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include exercises corresponding to teeth occlusion. In these and other instances, the therapeutic device may be used in various configurations depending on the user and/or clinician's therapeutic goals. For example, the therapeutic device may be held horizontally in the teeth, longitudinally in the teeth, and/or multiple therapeutic devices may be used (e.g., two therapeutic devices may be used front to back along the molars). These exercises may be performed at rest and/or in conjunction with activity or exercise where clenching may be more likely to occur.
[0155] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be chewed until saliva begins to accumulate. In these and other instances, humming while chewing may accelerate the accumulation of saliva by activating parasympathetics. Chewing the therapeutic device may improve dental health, saliva production, and/or engage dental structures such as the periodontal ligament.
[0156] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to encourage forward movement of the jaw. For example, individuals with retrusive jaws, may grasp an end of the therapeutic device with their front teeth, which may encourage the retrusive jaw to move forward toward a neutral position to meet the upper jaw. Performing activities in the neutral position may encourage forward growth and movement of the retrusive jaw.
[0157] In some instances, the therapeutic device may be used to develop phasic bite in infants by stimulating or rubbing the back molars to help activate and/or integrate the phasic bite reflex. In these and other instances, unilateral bite exercises may be performed by placing the therapeutic device along the molars on one side. In some instances, diagonal, circular, and/or rotary chewing may be performed on the therapeutic device. In some instances, bilateral chewing may be performed using the therapeutic device.
[0158] Posture Exercises: In some instances, the oral facial exercises and/or other therapeutic exercises that may be performed with the therapeutic devices described throughout this disclosure may include posture exercises. For example, the oral facial exercises described throughout the disclosure may be performed simultaneously with various posture exercises. For instance, the posture of the individual may be modified while performing exercises with the therapeutic device in order to develop lip seal, increase space and/or increase function.
[0159] As an example of a posture exercise, the individual may stand the distance of their foot away from the wall lean and lean their spine up against the wall. This may be performed while using the therapeutic device to perform other exercises, and the clinician may obtain one or more measurements while the exercise is being performed. For example, the distance of the apex of the curve in the cervical and/or lumbar spine from the wall may be measured, and/or, with arms raised against the wall, the distance of the wrists from the wall may be measured, among other measurements.
[0160] As another example, the individual's back may be placed against the wall with the feet placed one foot length away from the wall and shoulder width apart. This position may be maintained while performing an oral facial exercise with the therapeutic device. In some instances, the individual may raise their arms (e.g., like goal posts) during this exercise.
[0161] In some instances, the individual may perform squats with the therapeutic device in their mouth. In some instances, the individual may perform a plank and/or push up against a surface such as the wall or floor while using the therapeutic device.
[0162] In some instances, the individual may be in a supine position, and the clinician may modify the posture of their back while the individual uses the therapeutic device. For example, the individual may suck on the therapeutic device to maintain lip seal during the posture exercise. In these and other instances, the individual may be placed on their side.
[0163] In some instances, the individual may be in a four-point position (e.g., on hands and knees) while the therapeutic device is being used. In these and other instances, the therapeutic device may be used orally to perform various exercises. In some instances, the individual may be in a plank position while the therapeutic device is being used. In some instances, the individual may be in a prone position and/or on a wedge while the therapeutic device is being used. In some instances, the individual may be lying on their side while the therapeutic device is being used. In some instances, the individual may be sitting on and/or laying on a physio ball while the therapeutic device is being used.
[0164] Measurement, Assessment, and Testing: As described previously, the therapeutic devices may be used to for assessment, measurement, and testing in addition to being used therapeutically to train, tone, and/or treat what the devices are assessing, testing, and/or measuring.
[0165] The therapeutic devices may be used to assess nasal breathing by an individual holding the therapeutic device with their lips sealed around the device. This may be performed as an alternative to taping, which may not be safe and/or may not be comfortable. For example, the individual is free to open their mouth at any time if they begin to feel uncomfortable. Moreover, this assessment may be performed while the individual is wearing a pulse oximeter so vitals may be evaluated during assessment. The individual may also be asked to provide subjective hand signals or other signals to allow the practitioner to evaluate whether to continue the assessment.
[0166] In some instances, such as described previously, the therapeutic devices may be used to determine various cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics. For example, interdental widths such as inter-canine width and/or inter-molar width may be measured using the therapeutic device (e.g., the measurement scale of the therapeutic device). As another example, oral space may be calculated based on measurements of sagittal or anterior-posterior depth. For instance, measuring the distance from the back of the molars or oral cavity to the front incisor teeth may be used in determining the oral space of the mouth cavity. Moreover, tongue width, height, and/or length may be measured, and these measurements may be compared against the determination of the oral space to assess whether the tongue has adequate space in the oral cavity.
[0167] Another cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristic that may be measured may be the vertical thirds of the face including the forehead third of the face from the top of the forehead to about the eyebrows, the midface third of the face from about the eyebrows to about the base of the nose, and the lower face third of the face from about the base of the nose to the base of the chin.
[0168] Other cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics that may be measured include indicator line measurements, ocular measurements such as interpupillary distance, hyoid to mentum of chin distance, and/or other facial measurements involving the eyes, nose, ear, eyebrows, lips, hairline, trichion, lateral canthus, and/or other facial features. For instance, the size of the nostril opening, the nasal width, and/or other nasal measurements may be determined using the therapeutic device.
[0169] As another example, cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics corresponding to the lips may be measured such as philtrum length, inter-labial gap, incisor show, vermillion, cheilion, and/or other cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics corresponding to the lips.
[0170] As an additional example, cranial-orofacial characteristics corresponding to the jaw may be measured such as the vertical opening of the jaw based on the distance between the upper and lower incisors, the jaw and tongue range of motion, lateral jaw movement, protrusive/retrusive jaw movement, rotary jaw movement, and/or other cranial, cervical, and/or orofacial characteristics corresponding to the jaw. In some instances, jaw and/or tongue range of motion may be determined with or without tongue range of motion ratios such as TRMR-TIP, which includes measuring how far the tongue tip can reach to the incisive papilla while the mouth is open, and/or TRMR-LPS, which includes measuring how far the tongue can elevate and suction to the palate with the mouth open.
[0171] As a further example, craniofacial characteristics corresponding to the teeth may be measured such as open bite, inter-molar, inter-canine (upper and/or lower), indicator line, lower incisor to upper incisor depth (e.g., for protrusive class 3 or retrusive class 2 bites), among other craniofacial characteristics that may correspond to the teeth.
[0172] As another example, Chvostek's signa twitch that occurs when the facial nerve is tapped in front of the earmay be evaluated using the therapeutic device by tapping the therapeutic device at the location which would initiate the sign. This sign may be used as a clinical indicator of low calcium levels in the blood.
[0173] The various features illustrated in the drawings may be, but are not necessarily, drawn to scale. The illustrations may be views of one or more portions of a particular apparatus (e.g., device, system, etc.) or method, and the illustrations may be idealized representations that are employed to describe various embodiments of the disclosure. Accordingly, the dimensions of the various features may be shown, or may be arbitrarily expanded or reduced for clarity. In addition, some of the drawings may be simplified for clarity. Thus, the drawings may not depict all of the components of a given apparatus (e.g., device) or all operations of a particular method.
[0174] Terms used in the present disclosure and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as open terms (e.g., the term including should be interpreted as including, but not limited to, the term having should be interpreted as having at least, the term includes should be interpreted as includes, but is not limited to, among others).
[0175] Relative terms used in the present disclosure and especially in the appended claims (e.g., bodies of the appended claims) are generally intended as falling within manufacturing tolerances and/or within scope reasonably understood by a person of skill in the art. For example, if two components are identified as being the same size, there may be variations consistent with manufacturing variances. Terms describing approximately, similar, substantially, or other terms designating similarity may convey within ten percent of the comparative value. For example, two components that are approximately the same size would be understood to be of a size within ten percent of each other.
[0176] Additionally, if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is intended, such an intent will be explicitly recited in the claim, and in the absence of such recitation no such intent is present. For example, as an aid to understanding, the following appended claims may contain usage of the introductory phrases at least oneand one or more to introduce claim recitations.
[0177] In addition, even if a specific number of an introduced claim recitation is explicitly recited, those skilled in the art will recognize that such recitation should be interpreted to mean at least the recited number (e.g., the bare recitation of two recitations, without other modifiers, means at least two recitations, or two or more recitations). Furthermore, in those instances where a convention analogous to at least one of A, B, and C, etc. or one or more of A, B, and C, etc. is used, in general such a construction is intended to include A alone, B alone, C alone, A and B together, A and C together, B and C together, or A, B, and C together, etc.
[0178] Further, any disjunctive word or phrase presenting two or more alternative terms, whether in the description, claims, or drawings, should be understood to contemplate the possibilities of including one of the terms, either of the terms, or both terms. For example, the phrase A or B should be understood to include the possibilities of A or B or A and B. However, the use of such phrases should not be construed to imply that the introduction of a claim recitation by the indefinite articles a or an limits any particular claim containing such introduced claim recitation to embodiments containing only one such recitation, even when the same claim includes the introductory phrases one or more or at least one and indefinite articles such as a or an (e.g., a and/or an should be interpreted to mean at least one or one or more); the same holds true for the use of definite articles used to introduce claim recitations.
[0179] Additionally, the use of the terms first, second, third, etc., are not necessarily used herein to connote a specific order or number of elements. Generally, the terms first, second, third, etc., are used to distinguish between different elements as generic identifiers. Absence a showing that the terms first, second, third, etc., connote a specific order, these terms should not be understood to connote a specific order. Furthermore, absence a showing that the terms first, second, third, etc., connote a specific number of elements, these terms should not be understood to connote a specific number of elements. For example, a first widget may be described as having a first side and a second widget may be described as having a second side. The use of the term second side with respect to the second widget may be to distinguish such side of the second widget from the first side of the first widget and not to connote that the second widget has two sides.
[0180] All examples and conditional language recited in the present disclosure are intended for pedagogical objects to aid the reader in understanding the invention and the concepts contributed by the inventor to furthering the art, and are to be construed as being without limitation to such specifically recited examples and conditions. Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, it should be understood that the various changes, substitutions, and alterations could be made hereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure.