Dysphagia Treatment in Burlington
Comprehensive Swallowing Therapy at Pillars of Wellness – we offer evidence-informed speech-language pathology services for individuals experiencing dysphagia (swallowing difficulties). Our goal is to improve safety, comfort, and quality of life for individuals with dysphagia across a range of medical and neurological conditions.
What is Speech Therapy for Dysphagia?
Dysphagia is a term used to describe difficulty with swallowing. It can affect different stages of swallowing—oral, pharyngeal, or esophageal—and may be linked to neurological, medical, or age-related conditions.
At our clinic, speech therapy in Burlington focuses on assessing and treating swallowing difficulties to help you eat and drink safely, comfortably, and with confidence.
According to the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association, common signs of dysphagia may include:
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Coughing or choking during or after eating or drinking
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Food or liquid leaking from the mouth or nose
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A sensation of food “sticking” in the throat or chest
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Unexplained weight loss or dehydration
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Recurrent pneumonia or chest infections
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Avoidance of certain foods or liquids
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Difficulty managing saliva
Dysphagia can range from mild discomfort to more serious swallowing impairment. In more severe cases, it may increase the risk of malnutrition, dehydration, or aspiration pneumonia.
With the right assessment and treatment, speech therapy can help improve swallowing safety, reduce complications, and support better overall health and quality of life.
How Can Speech-Language Pathology Help with Dysphagia?
Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are trained to assess and manage dysphagia through individualized, evidence-based intervention. At Pillars of Wellness, we begin with a comprehensive clinical swallowing assessment to determine the nature and severity of the problem.
Modifying food and liquid textures for safer intake
Improved swallowing
Training in safe swallowing strategies
More confidence and reduced anxiety
What neurological conditions can speech therapy for dysphagia treat?
There are many neurological conditions that can cause dysphagia, also known as difficulty swallowing, such as the following:
- 5Parkinson’s disease
- 5Multiple Sclerosis
- 5Loss of sphincter muscle relaxation
- 5Esophageal narrowing
- 5Stroke
- 5Dementia
- 5Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)
- 5Head and Neck Cancer
Dysphagia and Speech Therapy at Our Clinic in Burlington
In some cases, additional instrumental assessments may be recommended to obtain detailed information about the swallowing mechanism. These assessments are not conducted by speech-language pathologists at our clinic, but we will coordinate with your medical team as appropriate.
Common instrumental tests include
Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study (VFSS)
A moving X-ray (also known as a modified barium swallow) that visualizes the swallow in real time
Flexible Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES)
A scope passed through the nose to directly visualize the throat during swallowing
Dysphagia Treatment at Pillars of Wellness in Burlington
At Pillars of Wellness in Burlington, our speech-language pathologists provide personalized, respectful, and evidence-based care for individuals experiencing swallowing difficulties. Our approach focuses on identifying the root cause of dysphagia and building a clear, practical plan to improve swallowing safety and function.
Our dysphagia services are designed to support:
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Safer and more efficient swallowing
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Improved nutrition and hydration
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Greater comfort, confidence, and enjoyment during meals
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Reduced risk of aspiration and related health complications
Swallowing difficulties are often linked to other neurological or communication conditions. Our team works closely with individuals experiencing apraxia, dysarthria, and those requiring speech therapy for traumatic brain injury, ensuring a coordinated and comprehensive approach to care.
We understand how dysphagia can affect daily life, independence, and overall wellbeing. Whether you are recovering from a stroke, managing a neurological condition, or experiencing new or unexplained symptoms, our team is here to support you with clear guidance and compassionate care.
Before Your Visit
Frequently Asked Questions
What is dysphagia?
Dysphagia means difficulty swallowing food or liquids, which can affect the mouth, throat, or esophagus and make eating uncomfortable or unsafe.
What are common signs of dysphagia?
Signs include coughing or choking during meals, food sticking in the throat, recurrent chest infections, unexplained weight loss, and difficulty managing saliva.
How can speech therapy help?
Speech‑language pathologists assess swallowing and provide individualized therapy, safe swallowing strategies, and food/liquid texture recommendations to improve safety and comfort.
Who might need dysphagia treatment?
Speech therapy can help people with swallowing problems due to stroke, neurological conditions (like Parkinson’s or dementia), head/neck issues, or progressive disorders.
What’s the goal of dysphagia therapy?
The goal is to support safer, more efficient swallowing, improve nutrition and hydration, and reduce health risks like choking or aspiration.
