Tag: Speech-language pathology
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Manual Therapy for Fibrosis-Related Dysphagia in Head and Neck Cancer: Understanding the MANTLE Trial
The MANTLE trial explored manual therapy’s effectiveness in improving swallowing difficulties caused by radiation-induced fibrosis in head and neck cancer survivors. Preliminary findings indicated that manual therapy was feasible and well-tolerated, with some participants showing improved cervical mobility and potential swallowing function. The study suggests a need for further research on this approach.
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Kinesio Tape in Dysphagia Therapy: What the Research Says
Kinesio tape, developed in the 1970s, is gaining traction beyond sports medicine, particularly in dysphagia therapy. Research suggests it can enhance muscle function related to swallowing, improve lip closure, and aid in managing head and neck lymphedema. While not a standalone treatment, it supports existing rehabilitation efforts.
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Dysphagia Care in Dementia: What Clinicians Should Know
This text discusses the challenges of managing dysphagia in patients with dementia, highlighting limited research and the ineffectiveness of standard interventions like thickened liquids and PEG tubes. Clinicians are encouraged to prioritize quality of life through informed decision-making and tailored strategies, adapting care to meet individual patient needs and circumstances.
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The 3 Questions You Need to Answer During the CSE
The Clinical Swallow Evaluation (CSE) is vital for understanding a patient’s swallowing difficulties beyond anatomy and physiology. Key questions include: the patient’s past swallowing experiences, current difficulties, and desired outcomes. These inquiries help create a tailored plan of care, ensuring patient and caregiver involvement in the treatment process.
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Feeding Tubes and Dysphagia
Feeding tubes are medical interventions used for nutrition and hydration, not cures for dysphagia. Decisions to recommend them must consider various factors and not just aspiration risks, which they do not prevent. SLPs play an essential role in patient education and decision-making but cannot mandate feeding tube placement.
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LSVT LOUD and Swallowing: How a Voice Treatment Helps Dysphagia
LSVT LOUD, originally for Parkinson’s voice issues, may also benefit swallowing due to shared anatomical structures. Research indicates it can enhance vocal fold closure, improve cough strength, and optimize neuromuscular control, leading to better swallowing efficiency. However, further studies are needed to establish its efficacy for dysphagia universally.
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MD Anderson Bootcamp for Swallowing
Dysphagia post-head and neck cancer treatment is a significant challenge for clinicians. MD Anderson’s 2012 Dysphagia Boot Camp offers a reactive therapy for patients with severe swallowing difficulties. Through intensive, multidisciplinary approaches, participants engage in personalized rehabilitation aiming to improve safety, efficiency, and quality of life, resulting in notable improvements in swallowing outcomes.
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30 Facts About Dysphagia to Raise Awareness and Improve Patient Care
June is Dysphagia Awareness Month, highlighting the condition affecting millions. Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, can stem from various underlying issues and leads to serious health risks. Speech-Language Pathologists play a vital role in diagnosis and treatment. Raising awareness about dysphagia improves outcomes for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers alike.
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Exercise in Dysphagia Therapy: Let’s Get Functional
Recent, and not-so-recent, dysphagia literature has made one thing very clear: exercise physiology belongs in swallowing rehab. Researchers like Lazarus, Robbins, Burkhead, and Clark have emphasized that understanding the muscles involved in swallowing and how they actually function is key to designing exercises that work. Spoiler alert: just having someone swallow applesauce with a side…
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What the Heck is the MBSImP?
The Modified Barium Swallow Impairment Profile (MBSImP™) standardizes the interpretation of Modified Barium Swallow Studies (MBSS) through a clear, evidence-based protocol. Developed by Dr. Bonnie Martin-Harris, it focuses on assessing and treating dysphagia by quantifying impairments, guiding rehabilitation, and enhancing clinical understanding of swallowing dysfunction.
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