About the YTM® tool method

The YTM® tool method is a prescribed programme of exercises designed to support orofacial function in infants. It can support infants with a range of orofacial functional needs, with the YTM® tool used as part of the prescribed programme.

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The method is research-informed and draws on principles of orofacial myofunctional therapy, including neuromuscular re-education, movement, muscle function and sensory input. The programme is delivered following assessment and professional instruction, with exercises then carried out by the caregiver at home.

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The YTM® tool method may be recommended where support is needed with areas such as oral muscle tension or restriction, movement and mobility, muscle tone, strength and coordination, oral sensitivity, oral and facial function, feeding-related function or lymphatic flow.

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What is the YTM® tool?

The YTM® tool is a specialised intraoral instrument developed for use within the YTM® tool method. It was developed by Yulli Tamayo-Myerson RDHT, OMT, BBM, Founder and Director of Myofunctional Therapy UK and inventor of the patented YTM® tool.

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The YTM® tool was developed for use across a range of orofacial functional needs, with different protocols developed for different clinical applications and stages of development.

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Diana is trained to deliver the YTM® Infant Method for infants. The YTM® tool is introduced following assessment and professional instruction and, where appropriate, is then provided to the caregiver for prescribed use at home as part of the programme.

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Further information: Myofunctional Therapy UK

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Why has the YTM® tool been recommended?

The YTM® tool method may be recommended where assessment indicates that an infant may benefit from support with aspects of oral and facial function.

The prescribed exercises may support:

• reducing areas of tension and restriction

• fascial mobility

• movement and mobility

• muscle tone, strength and coordination

• sensory input

• oral and facial function

• more efficient movement patterns

• feeding-related function

• lymphatic flow and drainage

• positive interaction and connection between caregiver and infant

 

The purpose of the programme is to support the functional areas identified through assessment rather than to provide a guaranteed outcome. Progress is reviewed throughout the programme and discussed with the caregiver.

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How does the YTM® tool support the programme?

The YTM® tool forms part of a prescribed sequence of exercises within the YTM® tool method. It provides a means of introducing specific sensory and physical input during the exercises and is used alongside the prescribed programme rather than as a standalone intervention.

The exercises are demonstrated and explained during the programme so that the caregiver can carry them out safely and consistently at home.

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How is the YTM® tool used?

The YTM® tool is used by the caregiver at home following assessment and professional instruction.

Exercises are prescribed as part of the programme and are completed regularly between sessions. Instructions and exercise information remain available through the infant's online 'patient profile' so that they can be referred to throughout the programme.

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The YTM® tool should only be used as instructed. It is intended for individual patient use and should not be shared or resold.

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Online access

Your prescribed exercises and session information are available through the ‘Documents’ tab of your clinical notes within your ‘Patient profile’. Your 'Patient profile' is created when you register for the program and complete the 'Intake form'. This provides ongoing access to the information and exercise instructions associated with your programme.

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The programme booklet provided at the start of your programme includes tick sheets for recording completion of the prescribed exercises.

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Following completion of the programme

At the evaluation session, the goals established at the beginning of the programme are reviewed alongside current function and progress. Where the goals have been met and there are no ongoing concerns requiring further support, the programme is completed.

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Maintenance is usually discussed during Session 6, with longer-term exercises set where appropriate. Continued use of the YTM® tool method may help reinforce neurological re-education of the muscles and oral structures, supporting continued function and helping to prevent regression.

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Depending on progress and any ongoing concerns identified during the programme, the next steps may include completing the programme, arranging an optional review at a later date, repeating the programme where further work is identified as appropriate, moving to a maintenance programme with a later review, or referral to another specialist where additional or more complex concerns require further assessment.

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An optional reassessment or review appointment is available at £120.

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Safety and care of the YTM® tool

• The YTM® tool is intended for individual patient use and must not be shared between patients.

• The YTM® tool should be cared for, cleaned and sterilised in accordance with the instructions provided in your programme booklet.

• The YTM® tool is made in the UK from materials intended for intraoral use and is latex-free.

• The tool should only be used for the purpose for which it has been provided and in accordance with the instructions given during the programme.

• Further information about the YTM® tool method is available from Myofunctional Therapy UK.

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YTM® Tool Cancellation and Refunds

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• For D-Restricted Ltd cancellations and Refunds policy, and Payment breakdown, please refer to the guidance HERE

• For YTM® tool returns, please refer to the guidance HERE