In order to select the appropriate treatment techniques for oral and pharyngeal dysphagia in adults, clinicians need to understand the physiology of swallowing. This introductory course discusses the strengths and weaknesses of the evidence base for dysphagia treatment and reviews the principles of neuroplasticity and motor learning as they relate to the effects of injury to the central nervous system and the potential results of swallowing intervention. Presenter Nancy B. Swigert discusses examples of neuromuscular treatment for pharyngeal dysphagia and gives tips on analyzing evidence and applying a theory-driven approach.

Learning Outcomes
You will be able to:

• Describe the physiology of the oral and pharyngeal swallow
• State principles of neuroplasticity and motor learning
• Describe examples of neuromuscular treatment for dysphagia

What is Included?

You'll get online access to all the course content, including the full video, handouts, and references so you can access it from anywhere!

Assessment Type

Self-assessment—Think about what you learned and report on the Completion Form how you will use your new knowledge.

This course is part of the Fundamentals of Dysphagia learning path.

What is a learning path? A learning path is a curated set of courses on an essential topic, designed for you to take in order—or in whatever order you wish—as you have time in your schedule. Our learning paths identify sets of key courses so you can get on your way to mastering particular areas of practice according to your needs, priorities, and interests.

This learning path is designed for clinicians who are new to the area of swallowing disorders—as well as experienced clinicians who want a refresher. Taken together, these courses provide a comprehensive overview of dysphagia assessment and treatment.

• Impact of Impaired Anatomy and Physiology on Treatment of Dysphagia in Adults (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)
• Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology of the Adult Swallow (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)
• Dysphagia Management: Documentation and Goal Writing (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)
• Theoretical Basis of Exercise and Treatment of Dysphagia (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)
• Dysphagia Intervention: Planning and Implementation (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)
• Elements of a Comprehensive Clinical Dysphagia Evaluation (access in ASHA Learning Pass or as a la carte purchase)