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Assessment of Spatial Lingual Tactile Sensitivity using a Gratings Orientation Test
Published on: September 17, 2021
Evaluation of Lingual Tactile Sensitivity Using a Pneumatic Multi-Point Stimulation Device
Haruto Kadowaki1, Makoto Sasaki1, Yasushi Tamada2
1Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, Iwate University, Morioka, Japan.
Journal of Oral Rehabilitation
|July 29, 2026
Summary
A new system quantifies tongue sensory function, revealing age-related declines in tactile sensitivity. This method assesses aspects missed by traditional tests, aiding in screening for oral hypofunction and dysphagia.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Neuroscience
- Gerontology
Background:
- Tongue sensory function is vital for eating and swallowing.
- Current assessment methods for tongue sensation are inadequate.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a pneumatic system for precise, multi-point tongue stimulation.
- To establish a novel method for quantifying lingual tactile sensitivity under passive and active touch.
Main Methods:
- A pneumatic multi-point stimulation system was developed.
- Lingual tactile sensitivity was assessed in young and older men.
- Stimulus point movement detection (passive touch) and pressure difference detection (active touch) were measured.
Main Results:
- Significant age-related declines in lingual tactile sensitivity were observed.
- The new method showed no correlation with conventional sensory tests (e.g., Semmes-Weinstein, two-point discrimination).
- This indicates the system captures unique aspects of lingual sensory function.
Conclusions:
- The developed system enables quantitative evaluation of dynamic sensory perception and active touch.
- This novel method can screen for oral hypofunction in older adults.
- It may also support dysphagia assessment, including masticatory dysfunction.
