A REVIEW OF ELECTRICAL STIMULATION AND ITS EFFECT ON LINGUAL, LABIAL AND BUCCAL MUSCLE STRENGTH

Area of Science:

• Neurology and Speech-Language Pathology

Background:

• Lingual, labial, and buccal weakness (LLBW) is a common neurological consequence affecting speech and swallowing.
• Speech-language pathologists require evidence-based treatments for LLBW, prompting exploration of new modalities like neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the effects of NMES on skeletal muscles and orofacial musculature.
• To evaluate NMES's potential for strengthening lingual, labial, and buccal muscles.
• To identify research gaps and future directions for NMES in treating oral motor weakness, speech intelligibility, and swallowing.

Main Methods:

• A literature review was conducted on the general effects of NMES on skeletal muscles.
• The review specifically examined existing data on NMES application to orofacial muscles.
• Anatomic and physiologic bases of LLBW were provided for context.

Main Results:

• NMES is a recognized modality in physical and occupational therapy for muscular disorders.
• Limited research currently exists on the specific application of NMES to orofacial muscles.
• Orofacial muscles are accessible for surface electrical stimulation.

Conclusions:

• The current literature indicates a need for experimental studies on NMES for orofacial weakness.
• Further research is required to establish the efficacy of NMES in speech and swallowing therapy.
• NMES represents a potential novel treatment modality for LLBW.