Swallowing Therapy

At Atlantic ENT, our experienced speech-language pathologists provide specialized swallowing therapy to help patients regain comfort, safety, and confidence when eating and drinking.

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Regain Comfort and Confidence With Personalized Swallowing Therapy

Swallowing is something most people rarely think about—until it becomes difficult. Known medically as dysphagia, swallowing disorders can make eating or drinking painful, uncomfortable, or even dangerous. At Atlantic Ear, Nose & Throat, our experienced team offers comprehensive swallowing therapy to help patients restore safe and efficient swallowing function. Whether caused by a neurological condition, surgery, reflux, or muscle weakness, our goal is to help you eat, drink, and live comfortably again.

Understanding Swallowing Therapy

Swallowing therapy is a structured, evidence-based program designed to improve swallowing function through targeted exercises, retraining, and education. It is typically recommended after diagnostic evaluation—such as a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)—has identified specific issues affecting the swallowing process.

The therapy is conducted by a licensed speech-language pathologist (SLP) who specializes in swallowing and voice disorders. Each patient’s program is customized to address their unique challenges, from strengthening weak muscles to improving timing and coordination.

Our therapists work closely with our ENT physicians to ensure that every aspect of your treatment—from diagnosis to recovery—is carefully coordinated for the best outcomes.

Who Can Benefit from Swallowing Therapy?

Swallowing therapy can be life-changing for individuals dealing with chronic swallowing issues. You may benefit if you experience:

Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
A sensation of food sticking in the throat
Pain or discomfort when swallowing
Unintentional weight loss or dehydration
Difficulty swallowing pills or certain textures
Recurrent pneumonia or chest infections due to aspiration

Swallowing difficulties can affect both children and adults and often occur as a result of:

Neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, ALS, multiple sclerosis)
Head and neck cancer or radiation treatment
Post-surgical changes to throat or voice structures
Acid reflux (GERD or LPR)
Muscle weakness due to aging
Prolonged intubation or trauma

What to Expect During Swallowing Therapy

Your therapy program begins with a comprehensive evaluation, often informed by the results of your FEES or videostroboscopy exam. Your speech-language pathologist will review these findings to determine the safest and most effective approach for your specific needs.

Each session typically lasts 30 to 60 minutes and focuses on exercises and techniques designed to improve swallowing safety, comfort, and strength. Depending on your condition, your program may include:

1. Muscle Strengthening Exercises

Targeted movements help strengthen the muscles responsible for controlling the tongue, throat, and esophagus, improving coordination and pressure during swallowing.

2. Postural and Compensatory Techniques

Your therapist may teach specific head or body positions to help food and liquids pass more safely, reducing the risk of aspiration.

3. Neuromuscular Reeducation

For patients with nerve-related swallowing difficulties, therapy may involve retraining muscles through repetition and guided feedback.

4. Breathing and Coordination Training

Breathing and swallowing are closely linked. Training these systems to work together can prevent aspiration and improve comfort.

5. Diet and Texture Modifications

Your provider may recommend adjustments to food or liquid consistency to ensure safe and efficient swallowing while therapy progresses.

6. At-Home Practice

Consistent home exercises are key to achieving lasting improvements. Your therapist will provide a customized exercise plan to practice between visits.

Advanced Therapy Techniques: IOPI & NMES

Atlantic ENT incorporates advanced technology to enhance traditional swallowing therapy techniques:

Iowa Oral Performance Instrument (IOPI)

This device measures and strengthens tongue and lip pressure using an air-filled bulb connected to a digital display. It provides real-time feedback, allowing patients to track progress and increase muscle strength safely.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES)

NMES therapy uses small electrical currents to stimulate muscles involved in swallowing. This helps improve muscle contraction, coordination, and timing, particularly in patients with neurological conditions or severe weakness.

Both IOPI and NMES therapies are painless, non-invasive, and performed under the supervision of a licensed speech-language pathologist.

Benefits of Swallowing Therapy

Swallowing therapy not only improves the physical act of swallowing but also enhances safety, nutrition, and quality of life. Patients often experience:

Reduced coughing or choking while eating
Greater comfort swallowing solids and liquids
Stronger muscles and improved coordination
Decreased risk of aspiration pneumonia
Better hydration and nutrition
Renewed confidence in eating and drinking socially

By restoring function and independence, swallowing therapy helps patients regain control of a vital part of daily living.

Recovery and Long-Term Care

Improvement timelines vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of dysphagia. Some patients see progress within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term treatment.

Your therapist will monitor your progress through regular follow-ups and repeat assessments, adjusting your plan as needed. Many patients continue practicing maintenance exercises at home to preserve long-term swallowing strength and coordination.

Why Choose Atlantic ENT for Swallowing Therapy?

At Atlantic Ear, Nose & Throat, our integrated team of board-certified ENT physicians and speech-language pathologists provides expert care for swallowing disorders. We use advanced diagnostic technology, personalized therapy techniques, and a compassionate approach to help each patient achieve lasting results.

With convenient locations in Lake Mary, Orange City, and DeLand, we make it easy to access world-class ENT and speech therapy services close to home. Our commitment to clinical excellence and patient comfort ensures that every visit supports your journey toward safer, more effective swallowing.