Feasibility of sensory tongue stimulation combined with task-specific therapy in people with spinal cord injury: a case study

Journal of NeuroEngineering and Rehabilitation, 2014 · DOI: 10.1186/1743-0003-11-96 · Published: June 6, 2014

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Neurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores if combining tongue stimulation with exercise can help people with spinal cord injuries improve their balance and walking. The idea is that stimulating the tongue might activate brain areas that control movement. Two men with spinal cord injuries participated in a 12-week program involving balance and walking exercises along with tongue stimulation, followed by 12 weeks of home-based training. Both participants showed improvements in balance, walking speed, and confidence. This suggests that tongue stimulation along with exercise may be a helpful approach for rehabilitation.

Study Duration

24 Weeks

Participants

2 male participants with chronic motor iSCI

Evidence Level

Level 4: Case Study

Key Findings

1
Subjects were able to safely complete at least 83% of the training sessions, demonstrating the feasibility of the program.
2
Sensory tongue stimulation combined with task-specific training improved balance and functional ambulation in persons with iSCI.
3
Improvements were maintained for an additional 12 weeks with a home-based program, indicating lasting benefits.

Research Summary

This case study investigated the feasibility and potential effectiveness of combining sensory tongue stimulation with balance and gait training in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (iSCI). Two male participants with chronic motor iSCI completed a 12-week lab- and home-based program, followed by an additional 12 weeks of home-based training. The program included balance and gait training combined with sensory tongue stimulation. The results showed that the training program was feasible, and both subjects demonstrated improvements in balance, walking speed, and balance confidence, which were maintained during the home-based follow-up period.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Strategy

Sensory tongue stimulation combined with task-specific training can be a feasible rehabilitation strategy.

Home-Based Programs

Home-based programs can maintain and facilitate continued improvements in balance and functional ambulation.

Clinical Practice

Clinicians can consider incorporating sensory tongue stimulation into rehabilitation programs for individuals with iSCI to enhance balance and gait functions.

Study Limitations

1
Small sample size (two participants)
2
Lack of a control group
3
Outcome measures did not provide detailed insight on mechanisms of improved balance control

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