FAQs

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The Tongueometer is designed for those with reduced tongue strength and endurance. It may be appropriate for patients with the following conditions. Always consult with your healthcare provider before initiating any type of treatment.

  • Head/Neck cancer
  • Stroke
  • Neurodegenerative disease (Parkinson’s, ALS, MS, dementia)
  • Traumatic brain injury
  • Aging-related tongue weakness
  • Sleep apnea

This device may be used under the guidance of the following specialists:

  • Speech-language pathologists
  • Otolaryngologists (ENT)
  • Dentists
  • Orthodontists
  • Occupational therapists
  • Physical therapists
  • Sleep specialists
  • Researchers

Take the Survey

The Eating Assessment Tool is a self-administered, symptom-specific outcome instrument for dysphagia. The EAT-10 has displayed excellent internal consistency, test-retest reproducibility, and criterion-based validity.

The normative data suggest that an EAT-10 score of 3 or higher is abnormal.

No personal information is collected during the survey. No name, email address, or demographics.

Belafsky, Peter C., et al. "Validity and reliability of the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10)." Annals of Otology, Rhinology & Laryngology 117.12 (2008): 919-924. View Abstract

The Tongueometer device can be used with multiple users as long as the bulb is replaced and the handheld device surface and equipment is disinfected between users. 

To disinfect the Tongueometer device between users:

1.  First, use a damp cloth to remove any visible dirt from the Tongueometer surfaces and equipment.

        Note: Wipe only on the outside of the device, careful not to get the cloth caught on the metal tubing post. 

2. Second, wipe the Tongueometer surfaces and equipment with a hospital-grade disinfectant wipe (e.g., Cavi wipe, bleach wipe), following the instructions on the wipe label. 

       Note: Avoid excess moisture around the metal tubing post and the cable insert.

Repeat step 1 if there is a residue remaining on the device or an undesirable odor from the disinfectant wipe. 

Always confirm procedures with your institution’s infection control policies.

We want to make using this device as simple as possible. Watch our video tutorials to learn how to download the app, set up the device, and use the exercise modules:  https://e2scientific.com/video-tutorials/

Some evidence shows that increasing maximum tongue strength using a tongue exercise program such as the Tongueometer is associated with improved swallowing, however more research to document the efficacy of tongue exercise is needed.

Tongueometer-specific Research:

 

Validity of the Tongueometer

  • Wiles, Karlie, and Brittany Krekeler. "Comparison of Devices to Measure Lingual Strength and Skill." Undergraduate Scholarly Showcase 5 (2023).

 

Studies Involving Use of the Tongueometer

 

Below are publications of studies examining tongue strength in healthy subjects as well as in populations with swallowing deficits.

The Tongueometer Performance Dashboard is a free downloadable Excel template used to graphically display a patient’s exercise and assessment results over time. This Excel template has three tabs:

  • A graphical display of the Tongueometer’s device usage (i.e., the Dashboard)
  • Data input tab (where the CSV file of raw usage data is copied)
  • A brief set of instructions for using the template.

Download the Dashboard: Tongueometer Dashboard 

*Please note that the Dashboard works only on PCs. 

Measuring one's tongue strength can help healthcare professionals determine whether weakness may be related to one’s swallowing disorder.

Measuring one's tongue strength can help healthcare professionals determine the most appropriate plan of care and treatment program.

Objectively measuring and documenting progress can support treatment justification. 

While it is recommended that you work closely with your healthcare professional to determine if the Tongueometer is right for you, E2 Scientific offers the following guidelines for evaluating tongue strength. 

In healthy adults, maximum tongue strength falls in the range of 40-80 kPa, with an average of about 63 kPa. Tongue strength in older adults is somewhat lower than younger adults, averaging around 56 kPa.

There is considerable variability in tongue strength in healthy adults. The majority of adults have maximum tongue strength greater than 34 kPa.

Some evidence shows that increasing maximum tongue strength using a tongue exercise program such as the Tongueometer is associated with improved swallowing, however more research to document the efficacy of tongue exercise is needed.

Yes! Reduced lip strength and endurance can contribute to difficulty with eating, drinking, and speaking.

To measure and exercise lip strength and endurance, the user will place the air-filled bulb inside the corner of the mouth, between the cheek and the teeth. This placement will allow one to exercise the orbicularis oris, a group of muscles that surrounds the lips. 

E2 Scientific's mission is to provide accessible and affordable treatment options for those with swallowing disorders. We know first-hand the devastating effects dysphagia can have on one's physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

People with dysphagia are facing enough challenges. Access to affordable treatment should not be one of them. We strongly believe that cost should not be a barrier to treatment. 

At E2 Scientific, we have designed a high quality product by leveraging the power and affordability of Android phones/tablets with the hope that all those who could benefit have access to dysphagia treatment. 

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