Objective: This investigation examined the impact of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) combined with traditional dysphagia therapy (TDT) on improving tongue strength, as measured by the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) in two sub-acute stroke patients with mild-moderate oropharyngeal dysphagia. Method: This ABA single case investigation assessed tongue strength utilizing the IOPI at baseline, intervention and the withdrawal period. During the 12 intervention sessions NMES combined with TDT: namely, chin-tuck against resistance (CTAR) anf effortful swallows were utilized. Secondarily, pre and post measures of swallow strength were taken. The participant’s swallowing amplitude average was measured to objectively assess the strength and improvement in the participants’ swallow. The Eat-10 was given to obtain a subjective rating of the participants’ perception of swallow function. Results: While one participant experienced an improvement in tongue strength, and the other showed a decline, both exhibited better bolus control, bolus propulsion, oral clearance, and overall swallow function. Conclusion: The combined NMES/TDT treatment had an impact on improving tongue strength while facilitating a functional swallow. There was also a significant improvement observed in the secondary objective of effortful swallow. Future research should explore NMES/TDT across other neurological impairments utilizing a larger sample.
