What We Provide
Northern Michigan Regional Hospital Rehabilitation Services department is dedicated to improving quality of life for all individuals with swallowing disorders, called dysphagia. This is achieved by providing an evaluation, diagnosis, education, and treatment to all ages, infants through adults, with swallowing difficulties.
Who Can Benefit From Swallowing Therapy
Many different medical problems can cause swallowing difficulties. Sudden damage to the nervous system, such as stroke, head injury or spinal cord injury may cause difficulty swallowing. Diseases affecting muscle strength can cause swallowing problems. Various types of muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, or even diabetes can cause swallowing problems. Progressive neurological disease such as Parkinson's disease, motor neuron disease (ALS), myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, or Alzheimer's disease may cause swallowing difficulties. Diseases that affect the respiratory system such as COPD, emphysema, congestive heart disease, and certain types of cancer may cause swallowing problems. Tumors of the head and neck, and their treatment, can cause swallowing problems, as can injuries to the neck or head. Other medical problems such as arthritis can cause swallowing difficulties, as well as drying of the mouth (as a side effect from certain medications).
Treatment Strategies
Following an initial evaluation, the speech-language pathologist and patient (plus family members if appropriate) will develop a personalized treatment plan. One of the most common methods of evaluating a swallowing disorder is an x-ray study known as a "modified barium swallow." This is a simple test, conducted by one of our speech-language pathologists, in which the patient is given a variety of foods and liquids to swallow in different amounts. During this x-ray study, treatment techniques can be attempted to help determine the best head posture and food consistency for safe, efficient swallowing. These strategies, as well as a variety of exercises, are then taught and practiced during therapy sessions. Our speech-language pathologists also work with family members or caregivers to educate them for successful carryover of all strategies into the patient's home environment.
Northern Michigan Regional Hospital Rehabilitation Services can be reached at 231.487.4200.