Tag: Swallowing Rehabilitation
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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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The Free Water Protocol: Why Sometimes All a Patient Wants Is Just… Water
The Free Water Protocol allows certain patients, particularly those on thickened liquids or NPO status, to safely consume regular water between meals. Emphasizing hydration and patient dignity, it incorporates oral care and eligibility criteria. Research shows it enhances hydration and patient satisfaction, countering dehydration and fostering a sense of normalcy in care.
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How to Prevent Dehydration in Dysphagia: Evidence-Based Hydration Tools for SLPs
Discover safe, research-supported hydration techniques for dysphagia—ice chips, free water, moisture-rich foods, and oral care to reduce dehydration risk.
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Strength vs. Skill in Swallowing: Rethinking Dysphagia Therapy Approaches
Should dysphagia therapy focus on skill training or strength training? Learn how both approaches impact swallowing rehabilitation, why exercise science principles matter, and what research says about effective therapy strategies for SLPs.
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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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Redefining Dysphagia Care: From Observation to Rehabilitation
The post discusses the inadequacies of current dysphagia therapy practices, emphasizing the need for instrumental evaluations like MBSS and FEES to properly assess swallowing. It criticizes superficial interventions in favor of evidence-based, individualized rehabilitation strategies that enhance patient outcomes. The author urges speech-language pathologists to adopt a proactive approach in their therapy sessions.
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Nutrition Essentials for Modified Diets
Nutrition is vital for health, especially for individuals on modified diets, who are at risk of malnutrition. Macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, fats) and micronutrients (vitamins, minerals) play crucial roles. Strategies such as food fortification, small frequent meals, and hydration can enhance nutritional intake, ensuring patients maintain health and well-being despite dietary restrictions.
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Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR)
Intensive Dysphagia Rehabilitation (IDR) streamlines therapy for patients with moderate to severe dysphagia through evidence-based protocols leveraging neuroplasticity. By focusing on targeted swallowing exercises and patient adherence, IDR enhances treatment efficacy, improving patient outcomes and compliance. It marks a significant shift from compensation to active rehabilitation in dysphagia therapy.
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Understanding the IDDSI™ Framework
The International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI™) provides a unified system for food and drink consistencies, enhancing patient safety. It replaces the National Dysphagia Diet, offering clear levels for drinks and foods, minimizing risks. Resources such as testing cards and guides support implementation and training in diverse healthcare settings.
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Measuring Outcomes for Success…..What are You Using?
The Dysphagia Toolbox offers valuable tools for dysphagia assessment and treatment. Various free outcome measures like questionnaires and screening tools support clinicians in evaluating patients effectively. These assessments track progress and ensure reliable evaluations, which are essential for optimal dysphagia management and documentation in compliance with healthcare standards.
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Dysphagia Ramblings 