Influence of posture on swallowing

Area of Science:

• Physiology
• Orthodontics
• Neurology

Background:

• Posture disorders are common and can lead to significant musculoskeletal issues.
• Swallowing function, including infantile swallowing and conditions like a short lingual frenulum, has been anecdotally linked to posture.
• The precise relationship between swallowing mechanics and postural control requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between posture disorders and swallowing.
• To determine if swallowing type (infantile or affected by short lingual frenulum) influences postural control.
• To assess the impact of interventions like frenectomy on posture.

Main Methods:

• Stabilometry examinations were conducted, measuring the Romberg index and Lingual Frenulum Shortness (LFS) value.
• Frenectomy was performed when indicated.
• Data were analyzed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank test.

Main Results:

• Stabilometry showed positive variations in posture recovery after interventions.
• Improvements in postural control were observed.
• The study demonstrated a link between swallowing function and postural stability.

Conclusions:

• Swallowing significantly modulates postural control.
• Swallowing dysfunction can be a determining factor in postural syndromes.
• Prompt intervention is essential to prevent the progression to irreversible musculoskeletal disorders.