Digital-supported Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy for Adults with Mild to Moderate Obstructive Sleep Apnea A Pilot Randomized Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating Digital-supported Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy d-MFT for adults with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea OSA. This pilot randomized controlled trial aims to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and early effectiveness of d-MFT, which combines facial recognition technology with proven orofacial exercises to strengthen throat muscles, improve airway function, and reduce OSA severity and symptoms. The study also explores participant satisfaction and barriers to using the therapy. Participants are randomly assigned to either a d-MFT intervention group or a waitlist control group. The intervention includes five 30-minute d-MFT sessions, two follow-up phone calls, and daily home exercises guided by a mobile app that offers real-time feedback and tracks adherence over three months. The control group receives no intervention during this period but continues usual care. After three months, outcome assessments are conducted for both groups. During the study, participants undergo polysomnography and complete questionnaires measuring sleepiness, sleep quality, and daily function at the start and end of the three months. Researchers also measure tongue pressure to assess muscle function. Adherence is monitored electronically through the app. Feasibility and acceptability are further evaluated via interviews to understand participants experiences and satisfaction. The total study duration for participants is three months, with data collected at baseline and after completing the intervention.

Digital-supported Orofacial Myofunctional Therapy in OSA