Research Topic / Purpose of the Study: The purpose of this study is to determine the effects of a four-week intervention consisting of Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) and static stretching of the trapezius and hamstring muscles on tongue strength and endurance, muscle flexibility, and perceived muscle tension in healthy young adults.
Procedures: Participants will complete two testing sessions (pre and post), 4-weeks apart, assessing tongue muscle strength and endurance using the IOPI device, Neck and Hamstring flexibility using ROM assessments, Muscle tension using a Perceived Muscle Tension Questionnaire (PMTQ).
Time: Participation will include two, ~60 minutes testing sessions (pre/post).
- Treatment Group: Will also include two in-person intervention sessions per week and one at-home stretching session per week, for four weeks. (~30-minutes per session)
- Control Group: Should maintain normal activity throughout the study and no intervention required.
Inclusion criteria:
- Participants must be aged 18-30 years
- No history of tongue / recent oral surgery (except tooth extraction over six months ago)
- No known neurological disorder or TMJ dysfunction
- Not currently in a physical therapy or rehab program
- Not under the influence of illicit drugs or alcohol
Location: 210 Heskett Center, Human Performance Laboratory
Sign-up: If you are interested in volunteering for this study, contact Vindhya Sayam at vxsayam@shockers.wichita.edu or 316-768-9866.
Should you have any questions or concerns, contact Dr. Heidi Bell at heidi.bell@wichita.edu or call 316-978-5150