Kicking off the joint research of Okuchy and Kobe University.

We will verify the effectiveness of mouth exercises to improve breathing condition while asleep.

Okuchy, Inc. (hereinafter: Okuchy) and Dr. Tatsuya Nagano, Lecturer, Department of Respiratory Medicine, Division of Internal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Kobe University, have decided to conduct a joint research on mouth exercises (hereinafter “In-Mouth Taiso”) for cab drivers.

Background

As muscle strength around the throat and neck deteriorates due to aging and weight gain associated with lifestyle changes, it becomes easier to snore during sleep, and if this condition is left untreated, the risk of sleep apnea increases. Exercises for in-mouth muscles are considered effective overseas as a way to reduce this risk, and it has been reported that patients with mild to moderate sleep apnea syndrome can improve after performing these oral exercises for three months.

Until now, there have been no large-scale studies on the effectiveness of oral exercises in adults in Japan, nor have there been studies limited to specific occupations. This is the first study in Japan to target commercial drivers and to study 30 people (as of October 2023, based on published information such as medical papers).

This research is taking place with huge support from Nihon Kotsu Co., one of the biggest cab companies in Japan, which focuses on its employees’ health management such as testing and recommending treatment for sleep apnea syndrome. Also this research will be heldhold with 30 people of cab drivers from Nihon Kotsu Co.

Overview of the study

Details

Cab drivers will perform oral exercises (focusing on movements of the tongue, cheeks and soft palate) for 10 minutes a day for 12 weeks.
At the beginning, middle, and end of the study, the Apnea Hypopnea Index (AHI)  using a at-home sleep apnea test, tongue pressure, lip closure strength, and snoring status will be measured, and changes due to oral exercises will be analyzed.

Purpose

To examine the effectiveness of oral exercises, which are said to be effective in improving sleep apnea syndrome overseas, in Japanese subjects.

Subjects

Approximately 30 cab drivers from the Akabane Office of Nippon Kotsu Co.

Period

December 5, 2023 – February 29, 2024 (scheduled)