The Dysphagia unit is a fully functioning rehabilitation unit for swallowing disorders. The main causes of dysphagia are head and neck cancer, cerebral vascular accidents, traumatic brain injury, and cerebral palsy. Detailed evaluations are done with standardized tools and following evidence-based practices. The assessment provides the baseline for therapeutic strategies that vary from the patient to patient.
The unit highlights conventional therapy strategies including compensatory strategies, facilitatory strategies, sensory exercises, stretching and strengthening exercises. Therapy sessions are documented and followed up at regular intervals of time.
Patients with head and neck cancer may undergo pre and post counselling. This helps the client understand the process and remain motivated throughout. The focus in these patients is on compensatory strategies and sensory awareness.
Patients with neurological causes may exhibit the symptoms like paralysis, sensory deficits and cognitive deficits. In these conditions, the focus is on oro-motor strengthening exercises, respiratory exercises, thermal stimulation, and swallowing manoeuvres along with cognitive drills. Vital Stim training is used for patients with severe symptoms.
Patients on non-oral feeds (NG Tube, PEG Tube etc) require motivation and an awareness of the importance of oral hygiene and initiation of oral intake. The care givers are also provided with training for better hygiene and trouble-shooting of the non-oral feeding tubes.
Patients’ emotional and physical factors significantly influence the process and prognosis of therapy. Our team’s knowledge and skill coupled with their positive and friendly approach towards patients and caregivers lead to significant improvements in the quality of life of the patients we serve.
The dysphagia unit has a well-established paediatric dysphagia team that focusses on improving feeding and swallowing in children with developmental disabilities and other disorders.
Multi-disciplinary collaborations with external neurologists, oncologists, and other rehabilitation faculty also contribute to the best possible outcome for our patients.
The dysphagia unit is well-equipped for all the therapy it provides.
