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Tongue strength rehabilitation using biofeedback: a case report
Aline Vargas Maia1, Renata Maria Moreira Moraes Furlan2, Keiner Oliveira Moraes1
1Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais - UFMG - Belo Horizonte (MG), Brasil.
Codas
|October 31, 2019
Summary
This case report details tongue strengthening using biofeedback therapy in a young adult with reduced tongue force. The therapy showed significant improvements in tongue pressure and mobility, though normal values were not fully reached.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- Orofacial myofunctional disorders can significantly impact speech and swallowing.
- Restoring tongue strength and mobility is crucial for functional recovery.
- Biofeedback offers a promising approach for targeted muscle rehabilitation.
Observation:
- A 20-year-old patient presented with severe deficits in anterior tongue strength, lingual mobility, and coordination.
- Tongue pressure measurements using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) revealed significant reductions.
- The patient underwent 11 weekly therapy sessions incorporating computer games controlled by tongue movements.
Findings:
- Significant improvements in tongue pressure were observed after 8 and 12 sessions.
- Protrusion pressure increased by 123.5% after 8 sessions and 164% after 12 sessions.
- While functional gains were noted, optimal tongue strength values were not achieved within the 12-session timeframe.
Implications:
- Biofeedback therapy, utilizing gamification, can effectively enhance tongue strength and orofacial function.
- This approach may be beneficial for patients with tongue weakness post-injury or due to developmental factors.
- Further research is warranted to optimize therapy duration and intensity for complete functional recovery.
