TREATMENT OF SWALLOWING DISORDERS/DYSPHAGIA
Dysphagia (swallowing disorders) may affect chewing and preparation of food for swallowing, the transition of food or liquid from the front of the mouth to the posterior, as well as the swallow itself. Swallowing disorders can occur at any age and can stem from multiple causes. Dysphagia is usually caused by another health condition, perhaps one that affects the nervous system, such as a stroke, head injury, multiple sclerosis, or dementia. Cancers – such as the mouth or esophageal cancer, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause difficulties with swallowing. Our Speech Therapists are trained in identifying a swallowing disorder, making referrals for further analysis of the disorder, and treating the disorder. They are also experts at providing education to patients, family members, and caregivers who may a loved one with feeding. Speech therapy plays a vital role in ensuring an individual gets proper nutrition and hydration, without the risk of aspiration/aspiration pneumonia. Our Speech Pathologists also are trained in setting up Restorative Dining Programs in the Skilled Nursing Facilities with which we partner. Book an appointment today at one of our locations in West Sioux Falls, East Sioux Falls, Tea, Worthington Avera, Worthington Oxford, Brandon, , Hartford, or Central Sioux Falls!
Treatment for dysphagia may include:
- Being instructed in exercises for your swallowing muscles. If you have a problem with your brain, nerves, or muscles, you may need to do exercises to train your muscles to work together to help you swallow. …
- Changing the textures of the foods you eat, as recommended by your Speech Therapist.
- Educating the patient, family members, and caregivers in strategies or positions to help aid in safe feeding and swallowing.
- Vital Stim/Electrical Stimulation
- Medical Treatments by a physician such as Dilation, Endoscopy, Surgery, and Medications
The VitalStim® Therapy System is a non-invasive therapy to help to swallow through the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES). Electrical stimulation is used to promote muscle strengthening and muscle recruitment to rehabilitate the swallow. This therapy is ordered by a physician and provided by a certified Speech-Language Pathologist who’s had specific training and certification. This therapy, in conjunction with active exercises, is used to promote improved strength of the swallowing musculature. VitalStim has proven to be highly effective in helping patients regain the ability to swallow efficiently.
Contact Prairie Rehabilitation today in West Sioux Falls, East Sioux Falls, Tea, Worthington Avera, Worthington Oxford, Brandon, , Hartford, or Central Sioux Falls for Speech Therapy today.
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