VitalStim Therapy

Can’t Swallow? We Can Help

Dyshpagia, or difficulty swallowing, may occur after a stroke or other cerebrovascular acident. VitalStim therapy is a safe and effective treatment for many patients with dysphagia. This therapy is designed to help swallowing through the use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES). Electrical stimulation is used to aid muscle strengthening to rehabilitate the swallow. Ask your doctor if you may be a candidate for this therapy.

The VitalStim Treatment Method

This therapy is designed to help swallowing through the use of Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES). Electrical stimulation is used to aid muscle strengthening to rehabilitate the swallow. The sensory stimulation that is provided also helps muscle recruitment and swallowing function.

You may be a candidate for VitalStim Therapy if you show one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

• Coughing/clearing throat after swallowing
• Abnormal volitional cough
• Decreased voice quality (wet, hoarse, weak)
• Recurring chest infections
• Multiple swallow or special maneuvers required to clear throat
• Difficulty completing a meal
• Feeling of food being stuck in the throat
• Modified diet required (thickening, pureeing food, soft solids)
• Difficulty initiating a swallow
• Spilling food or liquid from lips and/or drooling

A VitalStim Therapy program is typically administered three to five days per week for one hour. Most patients can expect their treatment program to last for one month. Your physician must write a prescription for you to receive VitalStim Therapy. If you are interested in being evaluated for VitalStim Therapy talk to your doctor and request a referral to Jupiter Medical Center’s Outpatient Rehabilitation.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 561-263-5775