Actress Aims to Destigmatize HPV- Related Cancers
Posted by Sarah Schuman, M.S. CCC-SLP on 6/11/2019 to
General Medical and Dental Information
In an effort to end the shame surrounding cancers caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), actress Marcia Cross shares her personal story with anal cancer as well as her husband's with throat cancer.
(0) Comments
New Research Correlates Radiation Dose to the Masseter and Pterygoid Muscles with the Development of Trismus (Article Review)
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 5/21/2019 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
Reconfirmed!! New research reinforces the correlation between radiation dose to the masseter and pterygoid muscles with the development of trismus.
The study “Radiation dose to the masseter and medial pterygoid muscle in relation to trismus after chemoradiotherapy for advanced head and neck cancer” stresses the impact of radiation dose on the ipsilateral masseter muscle and the ipsilateral medial pterygoid muscle in head and neck cancer patients. A meaningful analysis of data was conducted across 83 patients treated for advanced squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. These patients participated in a preventive exercise program for mouth opening and MIO measurements were compared. The study concluded that radiation dose on the ipsilateral masseter muscle and ipsilateral medial pterygoid muscle is predictive for trismus.
Successful Orofacial Rehabilitation of Facial Burns with the OraStretch Press and Therabite Device (Article Review)
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 4/8/2019 to
Jaw Function, Trismus, and Jaw Therapies
The study “Full thickness facial burns: Outcomes following orofacial rehabilitation” (2015) examines the impact of orofacial rehabilitation on full thickness orofacial burn, specifically looking at mouth opening range vertically and horizontally. Results indicated that rehabilitation, including use of the OraStretch press or TheraBite device, had a positive effect on patients' opening range.
Xerostomia in HNC Patients
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 2/5/2019 to
Dysphagia & Oral Motor Control
Xerostomia, "dry mouth" is due to reduced or absent saliva production. It may affect a patient's quality of life and can lead to serious health problems! Learn about the signs, symptoms and managing xerostomia.
Living with Xerostomia - Mouth Care and Gum Health
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 1/16/2019 to
Dysphagia & Oral Motor Control
Living with Xerostomia? Tried and true tips from cancer survivor Speech Pathologist, Marcy Maksail, for Saliva Substitutes, Mouth and Gum Health.
IMPORTANT HPV VACCINATION UPDATE!!!
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 12/17/2018 to
General Medical and Dental Information
On October 5, 2018, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the administration of the Gardasil 9 vaccine for women and men between the ages of 28-45 years. Previously the vaccine was indicated for individuals up to the age of 27 years. "Gardasil 9 prevents certain cancers and diseases caused by the nine HPV types covered by the vaccine". Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) can cause head and neck cancer in men and women. It is the cause of most oropharyngeal cancers in United States. These cancers and their treatment may lead to trismus (limited mouth opening) and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).
The expansion in vaccination ages follows a study in which 3,2000 women between the ages 27-45 years were followed for approximately 3.5 years and it was found that Gardasil was 88% effective in preventing certain HPV related infections and cancers. The results were inferred to apply to men as well.
For further information, please see the complete FDA News Release at: https://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm622715.htm
Swallowing Difficulties and the Holidays
Posted by Sarah Schuman on 12/14/2018 to
Dysphagia & Oral Motor Control
Difficulty swallowing, dysphagia, may cause the sufferer to feel embarrassment eating and drinking around friends and family. This may lead to lack of participation during holiday celebrations. With some adjustments it is possible to make celebrations inclusive and enjoyable for all. We, at CMR, wish you and yours a very happy holiday season.
When to order a Jaw Motion Rehab System for Trismus Prevention from Radiation Therapy.
Posted by Rob Christensen on 11/1/2018 to
Dysphagia & Oral Motor Control
When should you recommend using a jaw motion rehab system like the OraStretch press to prevent trismus after radiation therapy? Who is most at risk for developing trismus from radiation treatment? We provide research and a decision tree to help you prevent trismus in head & neck cancer patients.
Cleft Lip & Palate - A Quick Primer
Posted by Sarah Schuman on 8/13/2018 to
Cleft Lip & Palate
What is a cleft lip? What is a cleft palate? What causes these openings to occur? What are the risk factors for cleft lip/cleft palate? What are the health implications? Learn more, including diagnosis and treatment options.
Trismus in Head & Neck Cancer
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 5/25/2018 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
Trismus, or restriction to mouth opening, has many implications including difficulty speaking, eating, maintaining oral hygiene, receiving dental procedures and may even affect intubation. Typical measure of mouth opening is 50 mm and highly correlated to body size. An opening of 35mm or less is considered trismus. Trismus is preventable and treatable by engaging in exercise therapy and treatment using jaw motion rehab systems such as the OraStretch® press.
HPV and Oral Cancer - Signs and Symptoms
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 2/12/2018 to
General Medical and Dental Information
HPV is the most prevalent sexually transmitted virus. The best screening for HPV related oral cancer is by a medical or dental professional. However there are signs and symptoms that the individual can monitor.
Article Review on Trismus incidence and impact on quality of life in head and neck cancer patients (2013)
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 2/5/2018 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
This study assesses the negative impact of trismus (restricted mouth opening) on head and neck cancer patients daily life activities. 6-12 months post-treatment trismus was found to impact quality of life with decreased mouth opening, jaw related problems, eating limitations, muscular tension, dry mouth, swallowing and pain as well as anxiety and depression both pre- and post-treatment.
Article Review on Exercise intervention for trismus in head and neck cancer (2016)
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 1/29/2018 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
Investigation into long term effects of exercise intervention utilizing jaw mobilizing device on trismus in HNC patients. Concluded that jaw mobilizing devices produce positive outcomes that persist over time.
New Research - Impact of Exercise with TheraBite device on trismus and health-related quality of life (2017)
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 1/17/2018 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
The TheraBite's positive effects on maximum interincisal opening and health-related quality of life factors.
OraStretch Press vs. Therabite. A Testimonial from Dave Y.
Posted by Rob Christensen on 1/3/2018 to
OraStretch Press
We received a really nice testimonial about our service and the OraStretch press from Dave Y. Dave recently switched to the OraStretch press, and says, compared to the TheraBite, he really prefers the OraStretch press because it is smaller and easier to use. He also wrote us to commend our billing staff as being "kind and empathizing with the customer." Thanks Dave!
Feeding Concerns for Babies with Cleft Lip/Cleft Palate
Posted by Sarah Schuman, MS, CCC-SLP on 12/18/2017 to
Liquid & Soft Diets and Recipes
Cleft lip and cleft palate are common birth conditions that occur as a baby is developing in utero. Feeding is a common concern for babies born with clip lip and/or cleft palate. Depending on the severity of the cleft the baby may be able to breastfeed, bottle-feed or feed using specialized bottles. Trismus Prevention and Treatment for Head & Neck for Cancer and Radiation Patients - Presentation at ASHA 2016
Posted by Rob Christensen on 11/21/2016 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
At the 2016 national ASHA convention, we presented on "Trismus Prevention and Treatment for Head & Neck for Cancer and Radiation Patients." Here we provide a copy of the slides for the presentaion and the handout from the session.
Webinar on Trismus and Xerostomia for the Head & Neck Cancer Patient
Posted by Rob Christensen on 1/29/2015 to
Dysphagia & Oral Motor Control
We have posted our first user-controlled webinar presentation about Head and Neck Cancer Rehabilitation Webinar, including information on trismus, xerostomia, the OraStretch press and TheraBite system.
Learn about diagnosing trismus, when to order a jaw motion rehab system for prevention of trismus, how to order, treatment options for xerostomia and more.
Learn about diagnosing trismus, when to order a jaw motion rehab system for prevention of trismus, how to order, treatment options for xerostomia and more.
Medicare Coverage for the TheraBite System
Posted by Rob Christensen on 10/16/2014 to
TheraBite System
Medicare coverage for the Therabite system has changed. It is no longer being billed to Medicare, and patients will have to purchase the device direct.
How do I clean pads on the TheraBite system? How do I apply or replace the bitepads? I do I remove them? Here is a guide with tips and tricks.
Posted by Linda Van Rossen on 8/28/2013 to
TheraBite System
Need instructions on how to apply, clean, remove, and replace the bitepads on your Therabite device? Here are instructions on how to best use the ATOS TheraBite pads.
Why can't I Suck out of a Straw after Wisdom Teeth Removal and Oral Surgeires?
Posted by Linda Shafto on 8/15/2013 to
General Medical and Dental Information
Why Your Oral Surgeon Tells You Not To Use A Straw After Oral Surgery Procedures?
Recovery Advice for having your Wisdom Teeth Pulled.
Posted by Linda Van Rossen on 8/12/2013 to
General Medical and Dental Information
Preparation Advice from the Tooth Fairy for after your wisdom tooth or third molar Extraction. Tips,
What is included with the TheraBite System? An overview of the device, its parts, and what they do.
Posted by Linda Van Rossen on 8/7/2013 to
Head & Neck Cancer, Radiation Therapy
Learn more about what is included in the TheraBite jaw motion rehab system, including parts and their purposes.
Warning: TMD “Diagnostic Tools” Proven To Be Inaccurate
Posted by Linda Van Rossen on 8/1/2013 to
General Medical and Dental Information
Does your doctor want to charge you to use EMG, Kinesiography, or Sonography to study or diagnose your TMJ disorder? You might want to get a second opinion.
A new study shows that many electronic diagnostic devices were no better than clinical exams at diagnosing TMJ disorder (TMD).
A new study shows that many electronic diagnostic devices were no better than clinical exams at diagnosing TMJ disorder (TMD).
Do I have to go to the Dentist every six months? Should I?
Posted by Linda Van Rossen on 7/29/2013 to
General Medical and Dental Information
Should I go to the dentist every 6 months? How often should I go?
You probably don't need to go that often, but high risk adults, should maybe go even more often. How often should you go?
You probably don't need to go that often, but high risk adults, should maybe go even more often. How often should you go?