Therapy of orofacial dysfunctions in cerebral palsy according to Castillo-Morales: first results of a new treatment concept

Abstract

71 children with cerebral palsy were treated for orofacial dysfunctions with stimulatory plates according to Castillo-Morales. The mean observation period was 15 months. The stimulator, situated orally on the removable orthodontic plate, is intended to improve the orofacial sensory-motor functions. The design of the stimulator varied according to the type of cerebral palsy, as well as the individual course of therapy. In addition to treatment with orthodontic plates, special oral and facial physiotherapy was applied in one third of the patients. The orofacial sensory-motor functions were evaluated by a neuropaediatric examination before and after treatment An improvement in spontaneous tongue position and coordination of tongue movement, food intake, speech development and drooling was noted in at least one half of the cases. The spontaneous position of the lips and the resulting constantly open mouth, however, could not be influenced in most of the cases.