VitalStim Plus System

VitalStim Therapy is a specialized form of therapy used to treat individuals with swallowing difficulties, a condition known as dysphagia. Dysphagia can be caused by various medical conditions, including stroke, neurological disorders, head and neck cancer, and other conditions that affect the muscles and nerves responsible for swallowing.

VitalStim Therapy is unique in that it combines traditional dysphagia therapy techniques with the use of electrical stimulation. Here’s how it works:

1. Assessment: Before starting VitalStim Therapy, a thorough assessment of the patient’s swallowing function is conducted by a speech-language pathologist (SLP). This assessment helps determine the nature and severity of the dysphagia.
2. Therapy Sessions: During therapy sessions, the patient is typically given a small, handheld device that delivers mild electrical stimulation. Electrodes are placed on the patient’s skin over specific muscles involved in swallowing, such as the muscles in the neck and throat.
3. Swallowing Exercises: While the electrical stimulation is active, the patient performs a series of swallowing exercises under the guidance of the SLP. These exercises are designed to strengthen and re-educate the muscles used in swallowing.
4. Duration and Progress: The therapy is typically conducted over a series of sessions, and the duration of treatment may vary depending on the individual’s condition and progress. The therapy plan is customized to address the patient’s specific needs and goals.
5. The electrical stimulation used in VitalStim Therapy is intended to enhance the effectiveness of traditional swallowing exercises by promoting muscle strengthening and coordination. It is believed that the electrical stimulation can help “re-train” the muscles involved in swallowing and improve the patient’s ability to swallow safely and efficiently.

VitalStim Therapy is often used in conjunction with other dysphagia management strategies, such as dietary modifications and postural adjustments. It is important to note that this therapy should be administered by trained healthcare professionals, particularly speech-language pathologists with expertise in dysphagia management, to ensure its safety and effectiveness for each patient.