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Electrical Stimulation May Improve the Feeding and Nutritional Status of Children with Dysphagia

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Dysphagia in children poses a significant health concern. Difficulties in swallowing can lead to an impairment in food intake and malnutrition, as well as a risk of aspiration and pneumonia. It is a life-threatening condition, especially for newborns and infants. Children with dysphagia and their parents are experiencing increased anxiety and stress. Traditional methods of dysphagia therapy involve manual exercises of the orofacial muscles and modifications of the diet to fit the child's abilities. These methods often do not achieve the desired results, which prompts researchers to look for new solutions to increase the effectiveness of standard therapy. One promising approach is neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) applied to muscles involved in the process of swallowing. The purpose of this paper is to highlight and discuss the feeding difficulties associated with pediatric dysphagia, as well as the possibility of NMES application in its treatment. It is anticipated that NMES, by enhancing muscles that regulate swallowing, may improve the nutritional status of children with dysphagia. More research is needed to show that NMES is effective in improving the feeding and nutritional status of children with dysphagia.

Source: Applied Sciences

DOI: 10.3390/app15105727

Authors: Monika Budkowska, Wojciech Kolanowski

Institution: Medical University of Lublin

Language: English

Topic: Dysphagia Assessment and Management

Subfield: Speech and Hearing

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,896