In the last decade or more, dysphagia research has investigated the effect of lingual strengthening on oropharyngeal dysphagia with promising results. Much of this research has utilized strengthening devices such as the Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI) or the Madison Oral Strengthening Therapeutic (MOST) Device. Patients are often given a device to use, and are able to complete an exercise protocol daily or multiple times per day. This case study was completed to determine the effectiveness of using the IOPI in an outpatient clinic where therapy was conducted two to three times per week. The patient was seen post tongue resection due to oropharyngeal cancer. From initiation of IOPI use to patient discharge, the patient demonstrated a 71% increase in lingual strength at the anterior position, a 61% increase at the posterior position, and a 314% increase at the base of tongue position. His diet advanced from NPO to general based on gains in lingual strength and bolus propulsion.
