Intraoral and Facial Massages: A Physiological Perspective for Speech Therapy Treatment

Abstract

This article reflects on the importance of intraoral and facial massages as a physiological and rehabilitative resource within speech therapy treatment for children, adolescents, young people, and older adults with language and communication disorders. From an anatomophysiological perspective, it argues that the stimulation of orofacial structures promotes neuromuscular activation, mobility of phonoarticulatory organs, and correction or compensation of alterations associated with paralysis, paresis, dysarthria, anarthria, aphasia, chewing disorders, and swallowing difficulties. The paper is grounded in neuroplasticity, reflex activity, sensory stimulation, the role of the central nervous system, and the relationship among education, health, and rehabilitation. It also proposes speech therapy good practices aimed at the use of facial and intraoral massages, functional exercises, bilateral and unilateral movements, facial coordination, relaxation, muscular stimulation, and family support. It concludes that speech therapy treatment requires an integral biological, pedagogical, and social understanding to select intervention techniques appropriately and avoid potential adverse effects during rehabilitation.