Abstract
Oral submucous fibrosis is a chronic, progressive, high risk premalignant condition seen mostly in the Indian subcontinent. It is mostly linked to betel consumption as a causative factor. The primary problem with oral submucous fibrosis is the stiffness of the mouth or difficulty in mouth opening. This is treated with medication followed by the use of exercises of the mouth prescribed by a physiotherapist. However, the role of the physiotherapist is not well defined. This article attempts to describe the type and method of exercises which can be prescribed in the treatment of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF). Keywords: Physiotherapy, OSMF, Exercises
Highlights
Pindborg et al (1966) defined oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) as an insidious and chronic disease that affects any part of the oral cavity and, sometimes, the pharynx
Worldwide estimate is of 2.5 million people affected with OSMF with most of the cases from the Indian subcontinent, especially southern India.[2]
Most important and potent cause for oral submucous fibrosis is the consumption of areca nut.[3,4,5]
Summary
Pindborg et al (1966) defined OSMF as an insidious and chronic disease that affects any part of the oral cavity and, sometimes, the pharynx. Worldwide estimate is of 2.5 million people affected with OSMF with most of the cases from the Indian subcontinent, especially southern India.[2] Most important and potent cause for oral submucous fibrosis is the consumption of areca nut.[3,4,5] The slaked lime releases alkaloids (arecoline, arecaidine, guvacine, and guvacoline) from the areca nut, giving a feeling of euphoria and well-being in the person consumed.[6] In this condition there is mucosal rigidity and inability to open the mouth. Physiotherapy along with pharmacology has shown good results in the treatment of oral sub-mucous fibrosis. Physiotherapy management includes excercises which has proven to have a great impact on treatment of oral submucous fibrosis.[7,8,9] Press the stick in while you push your tongue tip out against the stick.
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