If you’re living with dysphagia in Houston or anywhere else, you know swallowing can sometimes be hard or even scary. The good news? Simple exercises may help.
At Gastrodoxs.com, we believe that with practice and the right guidance, you can improve your swallowing strength and safety.
“With the right swallowing exercises, many of my patients have regained confidence and control,” says Dr. Bharat Pothuri, a Houston-based specialist in GI and swallowing care.
In this article, we’ll guide you through six helpful exercises for dysphagia. You’ll learn how each one works, why it helps, and how to do them safely at home.
Dysphagia means you have trouble swallowing. It can happen after a stroke, injury, or due to aging or conditions like Parkinson’s. Common signs include:
If this sounds familiar, talk to a specialist. Swallowing problems can lead to serious issues like malnutrition or pneumonia if left untreated.
Just like arm or leg muscles, your swallowing muscles need exercise to stay strong. These exercises:
This move strengthens the muscles in your throat and tongue.
Tip: Do this 2 times a day for the best results.
This exercise helps protect your airway while swallowing.
Use: Once a day or as advised by your therapist.
This protects your airway during swallowing.
Tip: Start with liquids and slowly add soft foods.
These exercises improve neck control and swallowing power.
This technique improves how well your throat opens for food to pass.
This exercise works your tongue and throat muscles.
Note: Do not use food or drink during this exercise.
| Exercise | Target Muscles | Key Benefit | Suggested Use |
| Effortful Swallow | Tongue, throat | Stronger swallow power | 2× daily, 8–10 reps |
| Chin Tuck Against Resistance | Suprahyoid/airway muscles | Airway protection | 1× daily, 10 reps |
| Supraglottic Swallow | Larynx | Reduces risk of aspiration | Before meals |
| Neck & Throat Strengthening | Neck, throat | Improves movement, support | Daily routine |
| Mendelsohn Maneuver | Laryngeal elevation | Better esophagus opening | 1× daily, 5–8 reps |
| Masako Maneuver | Base of tongue | Builds tongue strength | Daily, 8–10 reps |
Swallowing doesn’t have to be a daily struggle. These exercises, done consistently, can help restore strength and confidence. Whether you’re just starting your journey or looking for better results, Gastrodoxs.com and our Houston specialists are here to help. Reach out today for personalized care and guidance.
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 always talk to a speech-language pathologist first for safety.
Most people notice improvement in 4–6 weeks if they’re consistent.
Only the chin tuck exercise may need a ball or towel. The rest require no tools.
Yes. Most are gentle and effective at any age.
Yes. Take breaks if needed and talk to your doctor if anything feels wrong.
Yes! Texture-modified foods and thickened liquids often help. Ask your care team for advice.
Your provider may do a swallow study and create a custom plan based on what they see.
