You also know that it is sometimes difficult or even frightening to swallow when you live with dysphagia in Houston or anywhere else. The good news? Simple exercises may help.
At Gastrodoxs, we consider that through the practice and guidance you can be safe and enhance your swallowing power.
Many of my patients have not only been able to regain confidence and control with the help of the right swallowing exercises, says Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a GI and swallowing care specialist based in Houston.
This paper will take you through six useful dysphagia exercises. You will find out how they all work, why they are helpful, and how to do them in a safe manner at home.
Dysphagia: means you have a difficulty in swallowing. It may arise following a stroke, an injury or with aging or other conditions such as Parkinson. Common signs include:
In case it is not something new, consult an expert. Problems with swallowing may create severe complications such as malnutrition or pneumonia in case of neglect.
The muscles of your stomach muscles, as much as arm or leg muscles, should be exercised to be strong. These exercises:
This exercise tightens the muscles of your throat and tongue.
Suggestion: This should be done twice a day and produces the best result.
This practice works to secure your airway when swallowing.
Dosage: 1 time a day or as prescribed by your therapist.
This safeguards your air passage on swallowing.
Hint: Liquids should be used first followed by soft food
Such exercises enhance the neck control and power to swallow.
The method enhances the ability of your throat to open perfectly to allow food to pass through
This activity helps to build your tongue and throat muscles.
Remember: Do not take food or drink when doing this exercise
| Exercise | Muscles to be strengthened | Important Benefit | Recommended Use |
| Effortful Swallow | Tongue, throat | Greater power of swallow | 2 daily, 8-10 reps |
| Chin Tuck Against Resistance | Suprahyoid/airway muscles | Airway protection | 1 daily, 10 reps |
| Supraglottic Swallow | Larynx | Lessens the risk of aspiration | Pre meals |
| Neck & Throat Strengthening | Neck, throat | Improves movement, support | Daily routine |
| Mendelsohn Maneuver | Laryngeal elevation | Improved esophagus opening | 1 per day, 5-8 reps |
| Masako Maneuver | Base of tongue | Develops tongue strength | Daily, 8-10 times |
The swallowing does not need to be a daily challenge. Such regular exercises will make one feel strong and confident again. You are just beginning your path or you just want to achieve better results, Gastrodoxs and our Houston experts are on your side. Contact us today to receive individual support and treatment.
Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
Yes., but it is better to always talk to a speech-language pathologist.
Individuals who are consistent see improvement after 4-6 weeks.
A ball or towel might only be required in the chin tuck exercise. The rest require no tools.
Yes. The majority of them are soft and provide effects at all ages.
Yes. Relax when necessary and discuss with your doctor when anything does not feel right.
Yes! Thickened liquids and texture modified foods usually assist. Ask your care team for advice.
The swallow study may be performed by your provider, and an individual plan may be developed on the observation of your provider.
