Recovery Exercises for Tongue Stiffness After Cerebral Infarction

Following a cerebral infarction, many patients experience tongue stiffness, which results in limited tongue movement. This condition can significantly impact speech clarity and may even affect swallowing ability. It is essential for patients to begin rehabilitation training as early as possible, under the guidance of a professional therapist, to restore tongue function and improve communication skills.

Recommended Tongue Muscle Rehabilitation Techniques

In the early stages of recovery, patients should focus on basic tongue exercises such as practicing pronunciation, repeating syllables, learning new words, forming sentences, engaging in conversation, reading newspapers aloud, reciting poetry, and even whistling. These activities help stimulate tongue movement and gradually rebuild muscle coordination.

Progressing from Simple to Complex Movements

The rehabilitation process should follow a step-by-step approach, starting with simple tasks and gradually advancing to more complex ones. Initially, patients can focus on basic articulation exercises. As tongue mobility improves, more challenging tasks like reading aloud and reciting tongue twisters can be introduced to further enhance muscle control and dexterity.

Long-Term Commitment to Recovery

As tongue function begins to recover, speech clarity typically improves. Continued practice through reading and tongue twister exercises can significantly enhance the recovery process. For patients with more severe conditions, the rehabilitation journey may take longer. However, consistent training under medical supervision can greatly improve long-term outcomes and overall quality of life.