Effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on lip strength and closure function in patients with dysphagia after stroke

• Published in: Journal of Physical Therapy Science Vol. 29; no. 11; pp. 1974 - 1975
• Main Authors: Kim, Won-Jin, Park, Ji-Su, Oh, Dong-Hwan
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Japan The Society of Physical Therapy Science 2017
• Subjects: Dysphagia; Neuromuscular electrical stimulation; Orbicularis oris muscle; Original; Orbicularis oris muscle; Dysphagia; Neuromuscular electrical stimulation
• ISSN: 0915-5287; 2187-5626; 2187-5626
• DOI: 10.1589/jpts.29.1974

[Purpose] This study aimed to investigate the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) on lip strength and closure function of patients with dysphagia after stroke. [Subjects and Methods] Eight patients with dysphagia were recruited. NMES was applied to the orbicularis oris muscle. All the participants received NMES for 30 min/d, 5 d/wk, for 4 weeks. Lip strength was measured using the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument. To assess lip closure, the lip closure subitem of the videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale was used. [Results] Lip strength showed significant improvement and lip closure function showed a significant decrease. [Conclusion] This study demonstrates that NMES is useful for improving lip strength and closure function.