A randomized study comparing the Shaker exercise with traditional therapy: a preliminary study.

Seven institutions participated in this small clinical trial that included 19 patients who exhibited oropharyngeal dysphagia on videofluorography (VFG) involving the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) and who had a 3-month history of aspiration. All patients were randomized to either traditional swallowing therapy or the Shaker exercise for 6 weeks. Each patient received a modified barium swallow pre- and post-therapy, including two swallows each of 3 ml and 5 ml liquid barium and 3 ml barium pudding.

What information do clinicians use in recommending oral versus nonoral feeding in oropharyngeal dysphagic patients?

There is little evidence regarding the type(s) of information clinicians use to make the recommendation for oral or nonoral feeding in patients with oropharyngeal dysphagia. This study represents a first step toward identifying data used by clinicians to make this recommendation and how clinical experience may affect the recommendation. Thirteen variables were considered critical in making the oral vs.

Attaining and maintaining isometric and isokinetic goals of the Shaker exercise.

Previous studies have shown that the Shaker Exercise is effective in restoring oral intake in patients with deglutitive failure due to upper esophageal sphincter (UES) dysfunction. Our aim was to determine (1) exerciser compliance among healthy older adults, (2) number of days required to attain the isometric (IM) and isokinetic (IK) exercise goals, (3) rate and reason for dropout of exercisers, and (4) complaints associated with performance of the exercise. Twenty-six nondysphagic older adults were enrolled from an independent-living community (66-93 yr) to perform the Shaker Exercise.

Rehabilitation of swallowing by exercise in tube-fed patients with pharyngeal dysphagia secondary to abnormal UES opening.

Background & Aims: We evaluated the effect of a novel rehabilitative exercise on restoration of deglutition in a group of patients with deglutitive failure caused by abnormal upper esophageal sphincter (UES) opening manifested by postswallow residue and aspiration necessitating percutaneous tube feeding.

Methods: We studied a total of 27 patients by videofluoroscopy and functional assessment of swallowing scores before and after 6 weeks of a head-raising exercise program. Seven of 27 patients, assigned randomly, participated in a sham exercise before entering the tested exercise program.