Clinical Application of FES for Swallowing: Intensity Levels and the Placement of Electrode / 대한연하장애학회지

ABSTRACT

When treating dysphagia, “Functional electrical stimulation” is used for the purpose of improving muscle function, which is useful for swallowing. During swallowing, contraction of suprahyoid muscle is one of the first events that triggers the swallowing reflex and helps the bolus prevent aspiration during swallowing. Moreover, one of the aims of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) on the neck is to augment the hyolaryngeal elevation. However, depending on the current intensity and electrodes placement, the outcomes may vary. Although FES is a relatively new treatment method in comparison to traditional treatment techniques for dysphagia, presenting clear evidence and effectiveness is uncertain due to the application of various techniques. Therefore, this study is designed to know the effects of FES according to intensity of stimulation and placement of electrode.