Appendix A: Fujiu and Logemann 1996 Research
Fujiu, M., Logemann, J. A. (1996). Effect of a tongue-holding maneuver on posterior pharyngeal wall movement during deglutition. American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology, 5, 23-30. Retrieved April 13, 2009, from ajslp.asha.org/cgi/reprint/5/1/23
• Significant increase in bulging of the posterior pharyngeal walls (PPW) was noted when the tongue-holding maneuver was utilized.
• Contraction of the PPW is functionally important for 3 reasons:
1. When the PPW contract, they come into contact with the base of the tongue (BOT) which generates the pressure necessary for swallowing. This aids the BOT to generate the pressure necessary to propel the bolus smoothly through the pharynx.
2. PPW contraction shortens the opening of the pharynx to provide better protection and efficiency.
3. PPW contraction helps to expel the bolus from the pharynx.
• These findings are significant in that this is the first time that contraction of the PPW was noted to respond to direct treatment.
• Important to note, however, is that the maneuver restrains the tongue from retracting posteriorly, leading to risks of aspiration.
*See Figures 1 and 3 below for a diagram of tongue placement for the tongue-holding maneuver and video images of PPW movement during its use.
Posted by Nechama Heitler