Biofeedback-Based Tongue Strengthening Exercises, in Addition to Standard Rehabilitation, for Improving Speech, Swallowing, and Quality of Life Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Surgery for Tongue Cancer, T-PROSE Trial
This clinical trial evaluates whether adding biofeedback-based tongue strengthening exercises to standard rehabilitation is more effective for improving speech, swallowing, and quality of life outcomes after surgery in patients with tongue cancer, compared to standard rehabilitation alone. Patients undergoing surgery for tongue cancer often report disruptions in their speech and swallowing, leading to significant effects on quality of life. Following surgery, patients typically undergo standard rehabilitation at the direction of a speech and language pathologist, including gentle tongue range of motion exercises. The Tongueometer device features an air-filled bulb that is placed against the roof of the mouth by the tongue for resistance training. This setup allows for an initial measurement of maximum tongue strength and endurance, which helps establish goals that are specific to the patient. The device connects to the Tongueometer mobile application which provides visual biofeedback, ensuring consistent monitoring as patients complete exercises using the tongue bulb for resistance. Once goals are set based on initial measurements, the application offers two exercise modules designed to improve both tongue strength and endurance. Adding biofeedback-based tongue strengthening exercises with the Tongueometer device to standard rehabilitation exercises may be more effective for improving speech, swallowing, and quality of life outcomes in patients undergoing surgery to tongue cancer, compared to standard rehabilitation alone.