The effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation on swallowing function after stroke

Abstract

Objective To observe the clinical therapeutic effects of neuromuscular electric stimulation (NMES) on patients with swallowing disorders after stroke and to assess the value of surface electromyography (sEMG). Methods Forty stroke survivors with swallowing disorders were divided into a treatment group (20 cases) and a control group (20 cases) using a random number table. All of the patients were given routine medication and conventional swallowing training lasting 2 weeks, on the basis of which the patients in the treatment group were also given electrical stimulation. The seriousness of their swallowing disorders was evaluated and surface electromyographs were recorded for both groups before and after the 2 weeks of treatment. Results After treatment, the average dysphagia rating in the treatment group was significantly higher than before treatment, and significantly higher than that of the control group. sEMG of the suprahyoid muscles showed that the swallowing duration of both groups had significantly improved, but the values of the treatment group were significantly better than those of the control group. Conclusions NMES plus conventional swallowing training can significantly improve swallowing function for patients with swallowing disorders after stroke. sEMG can be regarded as an effective method for assessing swallowing disorders. Key words: Dysphagia; Neuromuscular electrical stimulation; Stroke; Surface electromyography