Tongue Ties and How Massage Therapy Can Help

A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short, too thick, or too tight.

Tongue ties are something a lot of people don’t realize they have been living with their entire lives. Many adults discover they have a partial or full tongue tie only after a practitioner notices certain patterns in the body or when chronic symptoms finally lead them to seek answers. A tongue tie is more than a restriction of the tongue itself. Over time it can influence the entire body, creating compensations that impact physical, neurological, and even emotional well-being.

A tongue tie, medically known as ankyloglossia, occurs when the tissue that connects the tongue to the floor of the mouth is too short, too thick, or too tight. This restriction can limit the tongue’s natural movement and may develop as a birth defect or a congenital dysfunction during fetal development. While some people notice issues early on, many individuals reach adulthood without realizing how many symptoms may be linked to this condition.

Some of the long-term side effects of an untreated tongue tie can include lymphatic system issues, Eustachian tube dysfunction, irritability, migraines, headaches, TMJ symptoms, learning difficulties, and equilibrium problems. These patterns can extend from the base of the skull through the neck into the thoracic region and can travel all the way down to the sacrum. Muscular tension, posture imbalances, and chronic discomfort are extremely common. Speaking as someone who has a partial tongue tie, these issues can appear gradually and become more noticeable as you get older.

Massage therapy can play a supportive role whether you choose to pursue surgery or not. If you plan to have a tongue tie release, also called a frenectomy, massage can help prepare the surrounding tissues, reduce tension, and support better outcomes. If you decide not to undergo surgery, massage therapy can still help release chronic tightness, improve mobility, and ease secondary symptoms caused by years of compensation. I use techniques that address the entire fascial chain affected by tongue ties, from the base of the skull through the neck and thoracic region and sometimes extending down toward the sacrum. Everything in the body is connected, and areas of tension often show up far away from the original source.

There are also options such as intraoral work, physiotherapy, and speech therapy that may complement massage therapy. Many people find that a combination approach provides comprehensive support.

For children experiencing issues related to tongue ties, pediatric practitioners are available who specialize in working with younger clients. I personally do not work with small children, but parents can seek out qualified professionals in their area who have advanced training in pediatric tongue tie care.

If you have been dealing with chronic tension, headaches, jaw discomfort, learning challenges, balance issues, or any of the symptoms mentioned above, it may be worth exploring whether a tongue tie could be contributing. Massage therapy can be an effective and supportive option, whether you choose corrective surgery or prefer a non-surgical approach.

With Care and support,

Suzan (Susan) Walker LMT

Disclaimer

The information provided in this blog is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Tongue ties and their related symptoms can vary widely from person to person, and some individuals may require care from additional healthcare professionals such as dentists, ENTs, physiotherapists, or speech therapists. If you suspect that you or your child has a partial or full tongue tie, please consult with a qualified medical provider to determine the most appropriate course of action. Massage therapy can offer supportive benefits, but it is not a substitute for medical evaluation or surgical intervention when necessary.

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