Effects of Device-Facilitated Lingual Strengthening Therapy on Dysphagia Related Outcomes in Patients Post-Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background Swallowing impairments resulting from stroke have few rehabilitative options. Prior evidence suggests lingual strengthening exercise may provide some benefit, but more randomized controlled trials are required. The purpose of this study was to examine efficacy of progressive lingual resistance training on lingual pressure generative capacity and swallowing outcomes for individuals with dysphagia after stroke. Methods Participants with dysphagia within 6 months of acute stroke were randomly assigned to: (1) treatment: progressive resistance tongue exercise using pressure sensors for 12 weeks with usual care; or (2) control: usual care only. Outcomes were measured at baseline, 8 and 12 weeks to assess group differences in lingual pressure generation, swallow safety, efficiency, oral intake, and swallowing quality of life. Results Final sample included 19 participants [treatment ( N = 9) and control ( N = 10)] with 16 males and 3 females (mean age = 69.33). Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS) scores improved significantly ( p = 0.04) in the treatment group from baseline to 8 weeks compared to usual care (control). No significant differences between treatment groups were identified for other outcomes; large effect sizes were detected for group differences in lingual pressure generative capacity from baseline to 8 weeks at the anterior sensor ( d = .95) and posterior sensor ( d = 0.96), and vallecular residue of liquids (baseline to 8-week d = 1.2). Conclusions Lingual strengthening exercise resulted in significant improvements in functional oral intake for patients with post-stroke dysphagia as compared to usual care after 8 weeks. Future studies should include a larger sample size and address treatment impact on specific aspects of swallow physiology.