Optimal Method for Tongue Strengthening

Summary

The research team will conduct a multi-site, randomized controlled trial examining the effectiveness of exercise intensity progression compared to standard practice (no progression) in the context of swallowing rehabilitation. The study will also determine the impact of using biofeedback during resistance training on tongue strength. The study is a first step in determining an optimal delivery of tongue strengthening exercise in typically aging older persons, with the plan to develop a framework for guiding clinical practice of tongue strengthening in various dysphagic populations. Participants will be randomized into one of four treatment groups and complete 8 weeks of tongue resistance training.

Conditions

• Focus of Study is Tongue Strength

Interventions

BEHAVIORAL

Tongue resistance exercise

Participant will complete tongue resistance exercises.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Case Western Reserve University

  collaborator OTHER

• Emerson College

  collaborator OTHER

• James Madison University

  collaborator OTHER

• Texas Christian University

  collaborator OTHER

• Samford University

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Sarah H Szynkiewicz, Ph.D. · Samford University

• Erin Kamarunas, Ph.D. · James Madison University

• Teresa Drulia, Ph.D. · Texas Christian University

• Lindsay Griffin, Ph.D. · Emerson College

• Rachel Mulheren, Ph.D. · Case Western Reserve University

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

SINGLE

Model

PARALLEL

Eligibility

Min Age

55 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

Yes

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2021-06-01

Primary Completion

2022-08-15

Completion

2022-08-15

Countries

• United States

Study Locations