The tongue plays a central role in essential oral functions, including swallowing, speech, and upper airway control. Its coordinated interaction with the respiratory system is particularly relevant in clinical conditions such as obstructive sleep apnea and dysphagia. While respiratory muscle training is increasingly used in these contexts, its effects on the neural control of tongue function remain poorly understood. This randomized cross-over pilot study aimed to investigate the acute effects of inspiratory (IMT) and expiratory (EMT) muscle training on tongue corticomotor excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation. These results will provide novel insight into the neurophysiological mechanisms linking respiratory interventions and oral motor control.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
SINGLE
Enrollment
20
An inspiratory threshold loading device set at 50% of the baseline maximal inspiratory pressure (PImax) was used. The training session consisted of five cycles of 20 breaths performed against the device, with a 2-minute rest period between cycles. Each breath consisted of quiet exhalation through the device, followed by a deep and forceful inspiration against the prescribed load.
An expiratory threshold loading device set at 50% of the baseline maximal expiratory pressure (PEmax) was used. The training session consisted of five cycles of 20 breaths performed against the device, with a 2-minute rest period between cycles. Each breath consisted of quiet inhalation through the device, followed by a deep and forceful expiration against the set load.
Aarhus University
Aarhus, Denmark
Motor-evoked potentials
The amplitude of tongue-related motor-evoked potentials are assessed using transcranial magnetic stimulation over the tongue motor cortex.
Time frame: Measured two times: immediately before the training session (baseline) and immediately after completion of the training session (approximately 45 minutes after baseline)
Maximum Inspiratory and Expiratory Pressure
Maximum Inspiratory and Expiratory pressure will be measured via the POWERBreathe device
Time frame: Measured two times: immediately before the training session (baseline) and immediately after completion of the training session (approximately 45 minutes after baseline)
Tongue elevation peak pressure
Tongue peak pressure during elevation movements will be measured via the IOPI device
Time frame: Measured two times: immediately before the training session (baseline) and immediately after completion of the training session (approximately 45 minutes after baseline)
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.