This certification program comprises of combining Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation and Traditional dysphagia techniques. This is the only FDA cleared treatment approach.

Duration
1.5 Days

Key Topics Covered:
    1. Muscle Physiology
    2. Pathological swallowing mechanisms and processes.
    3. Modified Barium Swallow Evaluations
    4. Basic concepts of neuromuscular electrical stimulation.
    5. Vitalstim therapy Protocol

Objectives
Upon completion of this workshop, students should be able to:

To describe the various phases of the normal swallowing movement

To describe the neuro-physiological processes involved in normal swallowing, neural pathways controlling swallowing

Positive and negative feedback occurring during swallowing

To discuss the psychological aspects involved with and their impact on swallowing.

To describe the main pathological conditions affecting the swallowing function in both the; adult and paediatric population.

To interpret the results of a modified barium study.

To categorize the swallowing disorder based on the result of the evaluation.

To describe the characteristics of electrical stimulation and the influence of electricity on muscle tissue.

To identify the pathological conditions for which electrical stimulation is indicated.

To describe the characteristics of the VitalStim Therapy electrical stimulation unit and the electrodes used.

To discuss and demonstrate the application of VitalStim Therapy technology in the treatment of dysphagia.

To discuss and demonstrate the use of swallowing exercise during and after the application of VitalStim technology.

To discuss the use of other interventions to maximize the impact of VitalStim Therapy.

To discuss and demonstrate correct use of documentation forms.