Improving tongue muscle function after radiation treatment for head and neck cancer
Treatment of Functional Deficits IN tongue muscles induced by radiation and chemoradiation treatment
['FUNDING_R37'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10772192
This study is looking at how radiation and chemotherapy affect the muscles in the tongue of people with head and neck cancer, and it’s exploring ways like tongue exercises and electrical stimulation to help improve their ability to talk and swallow after treatment.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10772192 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of radiation and chemoradiation on tongue muscle function in patients with head and neck cancer. It aims to understand the biological changes that occur in the tongue muscles due to these treatments and explores potential interventions such as tongue exercise and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) to improve muscle function. By using a rat model, the study will evaluate how these interventions can help restore communication and swallowing abilities that are often compromised after treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have undergone radiation or chemoradiation for head and neck cancer and are experiencing difficulties with speech or swallowing.
Not a fit: Patients who have not received radiation or chemoradiation treatment for head and neck cancer may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance speech and swallowing functions for patients affected by head and neck cancer treatments.
How similar studies have performed: While similar approaches have been explored in other contexts, this specific investigation into tongue muscle recovery post-radiation is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
MADISON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON — MADISON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RUSSELL, JOHN A — UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON
- Study coordinator: RUSSELL, JOHN A
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.