Swallowing Therapy

Dysphagia

Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can be very obvious or very subtle from neurological (i.e. stroke) or physical impairments (i.e. head and neck cancer). A speech pathologist’s role in swallowing is to complete evaluations to determine the potential cause(s), determine the phase of the disorder, and select the appropriate treatment method. Further, it is the speech-language pathologists’ role to determine the impact this impairment has on the individual’s life and their family or caregiver.

A Swallowing Evaluation and Treatment may be recommended if you or your loved one are experiencing any of the following symptoms:

We are certified in several evidence-based treatments for dysphagia:

McNeill Dysphagia Therapy Program (MDTP) – an evidence-based & systematic swallowing program related to exercise science principles.

Myofascial Release (MFR) – a form of manual therapy that involves apply gentle and sustained pressure to areas used for swallowing to eliminate pain, increase range of motion, and improve swallowing function.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) – use of small electrical impulses to swallowing muscles in the throat through electrodes attached to the skin in order to improve swallowing abilities.

Head and Neck Cancer Lymphedema Therapy (Lymphatic Drainage)– specialized modality to address the lymphatic system of the head and neck post radiation and/or surgical intervention for head and neck cancer.

Now Offering FEES

Flexible Endoscopic Evaluations of Swallow (FEES) exam entails passing a flexible fiberoptic endoscope through the nose to the hypopharynx (into the throat) achieving a panoramic view of the pharynx and larynx (speech and swallow anatomy).

You are not alone! Join our dysphagia support group today.

Want to learn more about swallowing disorders and why we are so passionate about providing the best care? Watch this video of Maggie, the owner of Transcend Speech & Swallowing Solutions, as she explains what dysphagia is and three reasons we should be aware of this disorder!