Katey:

I wanted to mention a new kind of therapy option for infants, children, and adults with dysphgia, or difficulty swallowing. I am not even sure if Sebastian had his MBS study yet or not. If the results show that Sebastian does indeed have oral or pharyngeal phase dysphagia, you have 2 options. If Sebastian is safe on thickened liquids, you can thicken his liquids with a commerical thickener such as Simply Thick, Hydra-Aid, or Thick It (this is a totally different thread in itself).

The other option you can consider is VitalStim Therapy. This is electrical stimulation to the pharyngeal muscles (muscles of the throat where swallowing takes place). VS therapy is typically a "quick fix" that takes approximately 6 weeks, sometimes longer. We recommend patients attend treatment a minimum of 3-5 days a week for 30-60 minutes. I place 2 electrodes on the infant's neck, tape them on, and we watch Baby Beethoven and do therapeutic eating. Children tolerate this therapy exceptionally well. You must, however, have a certified therapist performing this on your child. I am certified, and if you have any more questions about VitalStim Therapy, please feel free to contact me. Again, you do have the option to thicken liquids as well. Sebastian should eventually strengthen his pharyngeal muscles with neurological maturity. VS Therapy is much quicker treatment method.

Thanks,

Robynne