Tag: Dysphagia
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3 Reasons You Should Never “Fake it Till You Make it” in Dysphagia
Faking it in dysphagia therapy poses significant risks. Confidence is essential, but without proper knowledge, misdiagnoses and harmful recommendations can occur. The ASHA Code of Ethics emphasizes honesty and competence. Professionals should seek education, mentorship, and prioritize patient safety, ensuring informed, evidence-based interventions in dysphagia care.
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My Top Five (Ok TEN+) Continuing Education Courses in Dysphagia
The author reflects on their extensive experience with continuing education in dysphagia, highlighting both enjoyable and frustrating courses. They recommend several impactful CEU programs that are evidence-based and practical for medical SLPs. The conclusion emphasizes that meaningful education can rejuvenate passion and enhance clinical skills in the field.
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Not Nectar Thick: The Truth About Carbonated Beverages and Dysphagia
Carbonated beverages are being explored in dysphagia management as a sensory strategy to enhance swallowing safety, not as thickened liquids. Research indicates carbonation may stimulate the Trigeminal nerve, potentially improving swallow function for some patients. However, effectiveness varies individually, necessitating personalized assessment rather than substitution for thickened liquids.
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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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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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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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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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Understanding Electrodes for NMES: Impedance, Adherence, and Clinical Impact
NMES (Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation) is debated in dysphagia therapy, with mixed research outcomes. Electrode design is crucial for effective therapy, impacting impedance and comfort. Various electrodes are compared, outlining features, costs, pros, and cons. Ultimately, NMES efficacy relies on a comprehensive approach including patient engagement and targeted exercises.
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Dysphagia Ramblings 