Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a common complication for individuals recovering from stroke, Parkinson’s disease, brain injuries, and other neurological conditions. At Florida Movement Therapy Centers, our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach are trained in the most current dysphagia management protocols to help patients swallow safely, eat with confidence, and improve their quality of life.
What Is Dysphagia?
Dysphagia affects the ability to chew, manage, or swallow food and liquids. For many neuro rehab patients, this condition can increase the risk of:
- Aspiration pneumonia
- Dehydration
- Malnutrition
- Reduced participation in mealtimes and social activities
Recognizing and managing dysphagia early is key to preventing serious complications and supporting overall recovery.
What’s New in Dysphagia Management?
Recent updates in dysphagia care guidelines emphasize:
- Instrumental evaluations (like VFSS and FEES) over bedside screening alone
- Individualized treatment tailored to the patient’s cognitive and physical abilities
- Interdisciplinary care, where SLPs collaborate closely with PTs and OTs
- A stronger focus on diet texture standardization using the IDDSI framework (International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative)
At Florida Movement Therapy Centers, our team stays current with best practices by attending continuing education, clinical workshops, and through regular case review collaboration across disciplines.
What Can Patients Expect During Swallowing Therapy?
At our Boca Raton and Boynton Beach clinics, speech therapy sessions for dysphagia may include:
- Swallowing muscle exercises to strengthen and coordinate movements
- Postural and positioning strategies to reduce aspiration risk
- Safe swallowing techniques taught and practiced during meals
- Use of adaptive equipment or modified diets as needed
- Caregiver education to ensure continuity of care at home
Learn more about our speech therapy services across South Florida.
Neurologic Conditions We Treat in Dysphagia Therapy
Our experienced SLPs treat dysphagia related to:
- Stroke
- Parkinson’s disease
- ALS
- Multiple sclerosis
- Traumatic brain injury
- Dementia and cognitive decline
We focus on improving safety and confidence with eating, while also supporting social engagement around mealtimes.
Why Choose Florida Movement Therapy Centers?
We offer:
- Highly trained SLPs with neurorehab experience
- One-on-one care using evidence-based interventions
- Access to a full interdisciplinary team, including PT and OT
- Two convenient locations in Boca Raton and Boynton Beach
If you or your loved one is struggling with swallowing, don’t wait. Our specialists are here to help.
? Schedule a swallow evaluation today at our Boca Raton or Boynton Beach clinic.
Sources:
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA)
- International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI)
- Clinical protocols from Florida Movement Therapy Centers