Norms for Orbicularis Oris Muscular Strength for Normal Swallowing Children in Grades Three Thru Six

Summary and Discussion: Subjects were used for establishing norms for labial strength. The group consisted of 114 NRSP subjects, all of whom were elementary school children in grades 3-6. The data of the 114 NRSP subjects shows the mean labial strength as being 4.45 lbs. There also appears to be some support for using the labial strength measurements as part of the diagnostic criteria for identifying the presence of reverse swallowing patterns (RSP). In addition, it is suggested that a measurement level well below the normative mean can be used successfully while a measurement of 4 lbs. and above could represent normal labial pressure. This procedure is strongly suggested in as much as most assessment presently utilized in determining the presence and/or absence of RSP have been essentially subjective observations. If the procedure mentioned herein is utilized, at least one objective measurement can be used along with the subjective observations. This writer feels that labial strength can be used along with the traditional observations for the successful diagnosis of RSP.