Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Swallowing changes can affect everything from nutrition to social mealtimes. Dysphagia therapy combines safety strategies, exercises, and practical adjustments so eating stays as full and enjoyable as possible.

What it is

Dysphagia is difficulty swallowing. It can result from stroke, dementia, head and neck cancer treatment, Parkinson's, ALS, or other conditions. Therapy ranges from compensatory strategies and diet texture monitoring to direct exercises that build swallowing strength and coordination.

Who this is for

• Adults experiencing coughing, choking, or difficulty with certain foods or liquids
• People recently discharged from a hospital with swallowing recommendations
• Caregivers wanting to understand mealtime safety for a loved one

How I approach this work

Outpatient swallowing therapy works best when it builds on solid imaging. Usually an MBSS (modified barium swallow study) or FEES (fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing) from a hospital or imaging center. Once we have that information, we build a treatment plan focused on strengthening the swallow and increasing both safety and function.

What sessions look like

Sessions blend direct exercises that build swallowing strength and coordination with compensatory strategies (posture, pacing, bolus modification) that make daily meals safer immediately. Caregivers are often part of the work when it helps.