Effects of orolingual myofunctional therapy on snoring–a randomized controlled trial

Background: Snoring often limits sleep quality and quality of life of the affected person. Effective therapies for snoring are scarce.

Aims/Objectives:  This prospective, randomized, controlled study aims to investigate the efficacy of an orolingual myofunctional therapy for the treatment of snoring.

Material and Methods:  In total 125 participants with history of snoring were included in this single center study. Participants were randomized to orolingual (treatment) or finger coordination exercises (control) for 6weeks. The primary endpoint was a subjective snoring score derived from visual analogue scales for snoring qualities. The secondary endpoints included snoring index, -time and apnea-hypopnea index determined by home sleep apnea test and sleep questionnaires.

Results: 92 patients reached final analysis (51 experimental, 41 controls). In analysis of covariance, the snoring score at follow-up was 2.3 scale points lower in the treatment group, compared to the control group (95% CI 0.6 to 3.9, p=0.007). Explorative analysis suggested that older participants benefit more than younger. Secondary parameters did not differ significantly. Results: 92 patients reached final analysis (51 experimental, 41 controls). In analysis of covariance, the snoring score at follow-up was 2.3 scale points lower in the treatment group, compared to the control group (95% CI 0.6 to 3.9, p=0.007). Explorative analysis suggested that older participants benefit more than younger. Secondary parameters did not differ significantly.

Conclusions and Significance:  Results of this study indicate that orolingual myofunctional therapy improves subjective snoring score with respect to the bed partner compared to control.

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