Project Description
Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) is a therapeutic strategy used to improve hyolaryngeal elevation, an essential mechanism for healthy swallowing. CTAR involves contraction of oropharyngeal muscles by repeatedly squeezing a ball to the chest with the chin. No recommendations are made in the literature concerning the degree of inflation of the ball. Inconsistency in ball inflation may have an impact on the efficacy of the CTAR exercise. In this study, the investigators will increase the inflation of the CTAR ball from 2 pounds per square inch (PSI) to 6 PSI over the course of a 6-week training program. Fifteen participants will train 5 days per week for 6 weeks using a CTAR ball. At baseline, ball inflation will be set at 2 PSI. Each consecutive 2-week period, ball inflation will be increased by 2 PSI. Morphologic changes in the submental musculature will be assessed using B-mode ultrasound while oral tongue strength will be measured with a pressure transducer at baseline and at the end of week 2, week 4 and week 6. It is hypothesized that over the training period, progressive CTAR will increase the cross-sectional area (CSA) of the submental muscles as well as oral tongue strength.
Tasks and Responsibilites
1) Assist with Subject Recruitment
a. Post IRB-approved recruitment materials at key sites across campus and community and on social media
b. Assist PI with screening of participants according to protocol
2) Assist with baseline assessment of participants
a. Work with PI to measure baseline tongue strength
b. Work with PI to fit headset for optimal position of ultrasound transducer and measure baseline cross-sectional area of the submental muscles using ultrasound
c. Work with PI to train participant in the use of the CTAR ball for the home exercise program
3) Assist with follow-up assessment of participants at weeks 2, 4, and 6
a. Work with PI to measure tongue strength
b. Work with PI to fit headset using previously established parameters and measure cross-sectional area of the submental muscles using ultrasound
4) Develop presentation and present results at the Undergraduate Research Forum
Desired Qualifications
None listed.