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[Finger or thumb sucking. New interpretations and therapeutic implications]
1Odontostomatologia Università "Sapienza", Roma, Italia - antonio.ferrante12@tin.it.
Minerva Pediatrica
|July 2, 2015
Summary
Thumb sucking stimulates nasal-palatal receptors, aiding muscular balance and tension release. This neurological response explains the habit, moving beyond psychological theories.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Physiology
- Human Behavior
Background:
- Thumb sucking is common in children and adults, with psychological explanations lacking rational support.
- Previous theories focused on family dynamics and unmet needs, neglecting underlying neurological mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neurological basis of thumb sucking using anatomical and neurophysiological data.
- To offer a scientific explanation for thumb sucking, contrasting with existing psychological theories.
Main Methods:
- Analyzed 40 thumb-sucking subjects (ages 5-25) and 20 controls using electromyography, baropodometry, stabilometry, and scoliosometry.
- Evaluated postural and neurological effects associated with thumb sucking behavior.
Main Results:
- Subjects exhibited significant improvements in posture as measured by baropodometry, stabilometry, and scoliosometry.
- Electromyography analysis indicated positive changes in muscular tone among thumb-sucking subjects.
Conclusions:
- Thumb sucking stimulates trigeminal nerve receptors, promoting muscular balance and alleviating physical and psychological tension.
- The habit serves a neurological function, providing a mechanism for tension release and equilibrium.