DYSPHAGIA/SWALLOWING THERAPY

Oral motor exercises for swallowing strengthen tongue, jaw, and throat muscles using techniques like the Masako maneuver (tongue hold), Mendelsohn maneuver (holding larynx up), effortful swallows (hard swallows), jaw thrusts, and tongue presses/sweeps, all aimed at improving the strength and coordination needed for safe eating and drinking.

SLP tests different food/liquid textures (like pureed, minced, nectar-thick liquids, honey-thick liquids) using standardized scales to find the safest, most nourishing diet, balancing swallow safety with nutritional intake and quality of life. Results of Modified Barium Swallow Study may be required before attempting trials by mouth if person is at risk for aspiration.

Compensatory swallowing strategies are techniques used to help people with swallowing difficulties manage food/liquids more safely and efficiently by altering the swallow, posture, or food consistency, aiming to protect the airway and improve bolus transit, including methods like chin tuck, head turn, effortful swallow, and specialized cups.