For stroke victims, loss of the use of different areas of the body is common. If you lose some coordination of your tongue, you can have difficulty swallowing and speaking. Physical therapy exercises can help you regain some control of your tongue. By repeating these exercises, you can potentially improve your speech and make it easier to eat and swallow.
Rehabilitation Benefits
A stroke can damage parts of your brain that influence muscle coordination, vision and hearing. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, rehabilitation "helps stroke survivors relearn skills that are lost when part of the brain is damaged." Therapists can help you relearn tasks, allowing you to compensate for any residual disabilities. Repetitive practice is the most important element. Learning and relearning any skill takes time.
Isometric Exercise One
Isometric exercises are a muscle contraction conducted against a force without movement. By performing isometric exercises with your tongue, you can strengthen the muscle. You need a tongue depressor or a spoon for this exercise, and you may also need someone else to help. Place the spoon or depressor on the tip of your tongue and try to stick your tongue out of your mouth. Apply enough force to the object to keep your tongue immobile. Hold this position for five seconds and relax. Repeat six to eight times.
Isometric Exercise Two
Similar to the above-mentioned exercise, this isometric exercise also involves pressing your tongue against an immovable force. Place the spoon or tongue depressor against the side of your tongue. Instead of sticking out your tongue, try moving it to the side, pressing it against the spoon or tongue depressor. Hold for five seconds, relax and repeat on the other side. Complete the exercise six to eight times.
Isometric Exercise Three
To swallow and form certain sounds, your tongue needs to press against the roof of your mouth. Because the roof of your mouth is immobile, you can practice pressing your tongue to it and holding it for five seconds. Alternately, you can use a spoon or tongue depressor to apply a gentle force against your tongue's movement.
Licking Ice Cream
A licking movement is an excellent way to strengthen your tongue, and licking an ice cream cone can provide a sweet reward to your hard work. When performing this exercise, use only your tongue, moving it in an up and down motion on the ice cream. If you have extreme difficulty swallowing, use caution.
