A Comparison of Two Devices for Isometric Lingual Strengthening in Healthy Adults

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to compare tongue pressure measurements recorded by an established device, the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) and a new device, the TongueometerTM. Eight healthy adults ages 18 to 59 were subjects. Independent variables included device type (IOPI & TongueometerTM) and bulb placement in oral cavity (anterior & posterior). The dependent variable was tongue pressure in kPa. Each subject attempted three trials of maximum tongue pressure at both the anterior and posterior bulb placement location for both devices. The order of device and bulb placement position was counterbalanced to reduce potential carryover effects. Subjects were assessed at a single evaluation point. There was a strong correlation in pressure measurements between the devices (r = .91). Paired t-tests revealed significant mean differences, with the TongueometerTM consistently measuring 3-4 kPa lower than the IOPI. This study indicates that the TongueometerTM provides reliable measurements of tongue pressure.