Study of Tongue Strengthening for Swallowing Problems

Comparison Between Isometric Lingual Strengthening Exercises and Standard Clinical Care for the Treatment of Dysphagia

This study is a multisite, randomized clinical trial to determine the effectiveness of an 8-week rehabilitative exercise regime performed by patients with swallowing problems, termed dysphagia, compared to a control group of patients with swallowing problems who do not exercise, but receive standard clinical care. One hundred male and female patients will take part in this study from eight participating facilities around the country.

Inclusion Criteria:

• referral by a physician for swallowing evaluation because of suspected dysphagia
• complaint of difficulty swallowing
• aspiration or penetration of the laryngeal vestibule with liquids or semisolids OR post-swallow residue visible in the oral cavity, valleculae, or pharynx that is instrumentally documented by a participating SLP during a standard clinical videofluoroscopic swallowing study
• between the ages of 21 and 95
• ability to perform the exercise protocol independently or with the assistance of a caregiver
• physician approval of medical stability to participate
• decision-making capacity to provide informed consent (confirmed through discussion between the participating SLP and the subject's primary physician)

Exclusion Criteria:

• degenerative neuromuscular disease
• poorly controlled psychosis
• patient unable to complete the exercise program
• allergy to barium (used in videofluoroscopic swallowing assessment)