Suprahyoid Muscle Strengthening Using a Novel Exercise Device in Older Adults With Oral Hypofunction: A Randomised...

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Biomechanics

Background:

• Suprahyoid muscle strengthening is crucial for swallowing rehabilitation in older adults with oral hypofunction.
• Developing effective exercise devices and evidence is essential for this population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel neck-collar exercise device for strengthening suprahyoid muscles in older adults with oral hypofunction.

Main Methods:

• Thirty older adults with oral hypofunction were randomized into experimental (neck-collar device) and placebo (sham device) groups.
• Exercises involved isometric and isotonic movements targeting suprahyoid muscles.
• Outcomes measured included suprahyoid muscle activation (EMG), thickness (ultrasound), and swallowing function (penetration-aspiration scale via VFSS).

Main Results:

• The experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvements in suprahyoid muscle activation and thickness compared to the placebo group.
• The experimental group also showed significantly lower penetration-aspiration scale scores, indicating improved swallowing safety.
• All results were statistically significant (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• The novel neck-collar exercise device effectively enhances suprahyoid muscle activation and thickness.
• The device is beneficial in reducing airway penetration and aspiration risk in older adults with oral hypofunction.
• This supports the use of the neck-collar device in swallowing rehabilitation.