EMST
Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST) is a device based exercise program that improves airway protection through strengthening of the respiratory muscles. It is a pressure threshold device which exercises and increases the maximal pressure of the expiratory muscles.
Please click here for more information. This handout was completed by one of our graduate student clinicians.
NMES
Transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a treatment for dysphagia that involves electrical stimulation of swallowing muscles to improve muscle strength, coordination, and swallowing function. NMES stimulates targeted muscles, which is effective for muscle activation, muscle atrophy prevention, and muscle re-education.
Please click here for more information. This was handout was completed by one of our graduate student clinicians.
Thermal Tactile Stimulation
Thermal-tactile stimulation is most often used for individuals with delayed or absent swallow triggers to, “.. heighten the sensitivity for swallowing in the oral cavity thereby leading to a more rapid triggering of the swallowing reflex” (Teismann, et al., 2009).
Please click here for more information. This handout was completed by one of our graduate student clinicians.
The Chin Tuck
A chin tuck is a postural strategy intended to reduce aspiration. However it is often over- and inappropriately recommended!
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Dementia and Dysphagia Management
The prevalence of dysphagia among people with dementia varies depending on the stage of the disease, the type of dementia, and other individual factors.
Please click here for more information. This handout was completed by one of our graduate student clinicians.
Helpful Links For Professionals
American Speech language Hearing Association
American Board of Swallowing/Swallowing Disorders
Dysphagia Research Society
IDDSI