Sleep apnea is not just a sleep disturbance but rather a chronic condition that has devastating health consequences. Surveys show that the disorder affects a mean of 22% of men and 17% of women worldwide. Obesity, smoking, and alcohol consumption are some identified risk factors. There is no cure for the disease currently; however, there are many therapies that can alleviate symptoms. One such therapy is the cranial facial release technique, which is a non-invasive, holistic treatment modality. It is used to treat numerous head and neck disorders. This article explains how the cranial facial release technique can help sleep apnea patients.
Pathophysiology Of Sleep Apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea patients suffer from episodes of breathlessness (apnea) during sleep, which is the result of a partial or complete collapse of the airway. There is a loss of passage patency in the upper airway which majorly includes the nasopharynx and the oropharynx.
Anatomical factors such as deviated nasal septum (DNS) and adenoid/tonsillar hypertrophy contribute to the disease’s occurrence. Neurological disorders (spinal cord injury, stroke, etc.) and Down’s syndrome patients are at a greater risk of developing sleep apnea.
Holistic Treatment Of Sleep Apnea
Per a review, a multimodal holistic approach for sleep apnea is pretty useful and safe to adopt. The main aim of all the therapies is to increase the patency of the airway passage so there is less obstruction and collapse. The most commonly employed strategies include continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral appliances, and maxillomandibular advancement (MMA). In some cases, multi-level pharyngeal and nasal surgery is required.
Cranial Facial Release For Sleep Apnea
A relatively newer approach that can change the dimensions of sleep apnea treatment is the Cranial Facial Release technique (CFR). What makes cranial facial release superior to other holistic modalities is that it has multiple effects on the condition.
Opens Up The Nasal Passages
The primary role played by this endonasal procedure is the opening of the nasal bones. The introduction of air pressure into the nasal turbinates widens the nasal passages and allows optimum bone movements. This maneuver helps cure chronic sinusitis and has proven to be fruitful in the management of sleep apnea.
Improves Endocrine And Neurological Disturbances
As Cranial Facial Release targets the sphenoid bone and the pituitary gland, patients suffering from sleep apnea (secondary to endocrine and neurological disorders) can notice significant improvements. This is because the Cranial Facial Release technique improves CSF flow to the pituitary gland, which alleviates hormonal and neurological disturbances in the body.
Cranial Facial Release At The Legacy Clinic
If your sleep apnea is relegating your work productivity or the snoring is keeping your sleep partner awake through the night, visit the Legacy Clinic of Chiropractic for the best Cranial facial release. The competent professionals at the clinic offer custom-tailored treatment plans for patients. With a cranial facial release session at the clinic, you can say goodbye to your snoring and sleep apnea. So, don’t delay and book your appointment now!