Author: Tiffani Wallace-SLP and Certified Nutrition Coach
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Compliance or Choice? Rethinking the “Noncompliant” Dysphagia Patient
The post discusses evolving perspectives on patient noncompliance in dysphagia management. It suggests reframing noncompliance as patient choice, emphasizing the importance of education and support rather than discharge. Highlighting that not all aspirators contract pneumonia, it advocates for individualized approaches in therapy that empower patients to make informed decisions about their care and safety.
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To Tuck or Not to Tuck (Chin Tuck that is…)
The chin tuck is a widely recommended technique to aid swallowing by altering physiology, but it may not always be effective. While it can help some patients, it can worsen conditions for others, highlighting the need for personalized assessments. Clinical evaluations are essential to determine when to use this strategy effectively.
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Trying Gelmix: A USDA Organic Thickener for Dysphagia
Gelmix is a USDA Organic thickener designed for infants and children under three, suitable for thickening liquids like breast milk and formula. Composed of organic carob bean gum, tapioca maltodextrin, and calcium carbonate, it’s effective when mixed in warm liquids. Contraindicated for premature infants and those with galactomannan allergies, it offers gradual thickening and a…
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Biofeedback in Action: Using sEMG in Dysphagia Therapy
Surface Electromyography (sEMG) is a prominent tool in dysphagia therapy, providing visual biofeedback by measuring muscle activation in swallowing. It enhances patient motivation and therapy engagement. Devices like Synchrony from ACP integrate biofeedback with electrical stimulation, offering comprehensive support in rehabilitation, while numerous studies underpin its effectiveness in treating swallowing disorders.
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Measuring Lingual Range of Motion
The content emphasizes the importance of measuring lingual range of motion in addition to strength for effective tongue function assessment. A new validated scale categorizes tongue movement into four domains: protrusion, lateralization, and elevation. This comprehensive approach, especially for post-oral surgery patients, enhances evaluations, treatment planning, and overall quality of life outcomes.
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Thickened Jello
The article discusses the introduction of thickened Jello, developed with SimplyThick, as a solution for patients with dysphagia who crave traditional Jello. The author shares their experience testing the product, noting its pleasant taste and ability to maintain consistency. Instructions for making thickened Jello at home are also provided.
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Food Chaining
The post discusses Food Chaining as a therapeutic approach for managing dysphagia and feeding aversions in both children and adults, particularly those who are NPO. It outlines strategies for pre-chaining, treatment goals, and the importance of sensory exploration. A clinical case illustrates Food Chaining’s effectiveness, highlighting its relevance for diverse patient groups.
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Revolutionizing Swallowing Rehab: How Ampcare Is Changing the Game in NMES
Ampcare offers a notable alternative to VitalStim in neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) for swallowing, featuring FDA-approved, cost-effective, and comfortable electrodes with targeted placement. Their customizable device enhances treatment control, while the Restorative Posture Device supports swallowing posture. Clinical outcomes show improvements in patient diet and function.
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Rethinking NSOMEs: Why Swallowing Should Be the Core of Dysphagia Therapy
The discussion on Non-Speech Oral Motor Exercises (NSOMEs) prompts a reevaluation of their effectiveness in dysphagia therapy. These exercises, detached from actual swallowing, may not lead to significant improvement. Emphasizing the importance of specificity, therapists should focus on functional swallowing exercises backed by evidence to enhance rehabilitation outcomes and neuroplasticity.
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The Dummies Guide to Dysphagia
Dysphagia often goes unnoticed until it affects eating and drinking. Educating patients about swallowing is crucial in therapy. Swallowing involves complex muscle coordination and various cranial nerves. To treat dysphagia effectively, understanding its anatomy and utilizing evidence-based strategies are essential for rebuilding strength and coordination necessary for safe swallowing.
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Dysphagia Ramblings 