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.
Participants will complete two testing sessions (pre and post), four weeks apart, assessing tongue muscle strength and endurance using the IOPI device, neck and hamstring flexibility using ROM assessments, and muscle tension using a Perceived Muscle Tension Questionnaire (PMTQ).
Participation will include two testing sessions, pre and post, for about 60 minutes each.
- The treatment group will include two in-person intervention sessions per week and one at-home stretching session per week for four weeks at about 30 minutes per session.
- The control group should maintain normal activity throughout the study, and no intervention is required.
Inclusion criteria:
- Participants must be 18-30 years old.
- No history of tongue or recent oral surgery (except tooth extraction >6 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: Wichita State University, Human Performance Laboratory (HPL), 210 Heskett Center
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.
