When Swallowing Sucks
Jackie Larsen is a leading speech language pathologist in Utah County. Jackie specializes in cognitive, swallow, and speech therapy for adults. Jackie is one of the few certified neuromuscular electro stimulation (NMES) providers in Utah. NMES is an evidence-based treatment for swallow disorders. Jackie is... more
One of the most challenging parts of my job is working with individuals who love to eat a variety of foods but are unable to eat some of their favorites due to swallowing impairments. Gone are the days when they can indulge in a leafy green salad, or bite into a juicy steak. Many have limited (or eliminated altogether) social outings involving food due to the anxiety associated with coughing and choking.
I am a speech therapist specializing in treating swallowing and communication disorders in adults. Many of my patients have some measure of cognitive impairment and may have difficulty following directions for swallow exercises. These cognitive deficits may be caused by brain injuries (such as strokes), neurodegenerative diseases, or dementia.
Enter Neuro-Muscular Electro Stimulation. In this evidence-based treatment, a trained clinician places electrodes on dysfunctioning muscles used in chewing and swallowing. During treatment, the individual may eat or perform other swallowing tasks with the electrodes attached. A signal is sent to the affected muscles, giving them a jump start to do their job.
Electrical stimulation can lead to increased muscle strength, sensation, and coordination, which results in greater swallow safety, reduced risk of aspiration pneumonia, better overall general health, increased comfort during activities of daily living, and an overall higher quality of life. NMES has been shown to be effective for individuals with a variety of diagnoses, from traumatic brain injuries to neurodegenerative diseases. As long as the patient is alert and able to manage secretions, they may be a candidate for NMES.
With the right amount of practice from the patient and guidance from the therapist, the patient will ideally go back to enjoying popcorn during their favorite movie, peanuts at the parade, and a tall glass of lemonade by the pool
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation is a specialty skill and only a handful of speech therapists are certified to conduct the treatment. If you or a loved one reside in Utah County and would like a free consultation, reach out to me at (801) 420-4083 or jackie@livewellspeechtherapy.com.
You can read more about me and what I do at my website, livewellspeechtherapy.com.
