DR. TIMOTHY A BUTTERFIELD, PHD ATC
Athletic Trainer in Lexington, KY
License number
Kentucky AT710
Category
Restorative Service Providers
Type
Athletic Trainer
License number
Kentucky 000110
Category
Restorative Service Providers
Type
Athletic Trainer
Address
Address
210D Charles T BLDG WETHINGTON, Lexington, KY 40536
Phone
(859) 218-0840
Professional information
Tongue Strength Evaluation System And Method
US Patent:
2012030, Nov 29, 2012
Filed:
May 24, 2012
Appl. No.:
13/479640
Inventors:
Thomas J. Cunningham - Atlanta GA, US
Gilson J. Capilouto - Lexington KY, US
Timothy A. Butterfield - Lexington KY, US
Gilson J. Capilouto - Lexington KY, US
Timothy A. Butterfield - Lexington KY, US
Assignee:
CCB RESEARCH GROUP LLC - Lexington KY
International Classification:
A61B 5/11
US Classification:
600590
Abstract:
An apparatus for evaluating the tongue strength of a subject during a sucking event includes an insert positioned within a nipple element to provide an output in response to deformation of the nipple element during a sucking event. The output is at least one of resistive force exerted against the subject's tongue and movement measurement of deformation force exerted on the nipple element during the sucking event. The apparatus is configurable to evaluate nutritive sucking (NS) or non-nutritive sucking (NNS) capabilities of the subject. The insert may be a sensing device, a compliance element, an intermediate device or a combination of these. A coupling device is configured to position the insert relative to the nipple element and/or to receive output from the insert. A method includes evaluating tongue strength of a subject during NS or NNS and using inserts providing increasing levels of resistive force to exercise the subject's tongue.