Swallowing Therapy

Our swallowing rehabilitation experts offer the latest techniques to diagnose and treat dysphagia in people of all ages.

Meals are often social events, and being able to swallow safely at each meal helps to enhance quality of life. Safe swallowing is also a critical component to ensure adequate nutrition. Difficulty swallowing, also known as oropharyngeal dysphagia, can have a significant impact on your quality of life. Fortunately, through swallowing therapy, also known as swallowing rehabilitation, our experts can help you preserve or restore your swallowing function.

What are the symptoms of a swallowing disorder?

Signs and symptoms of oropharyngeal dysphagia may include difficulty chewing or swallowing, pain upon swallowing, coughing or choking during meals or the sensation that food or liquid is sticking in the throat during or after meals.

Swallowing therapy: Why choose Henry Ford Health?

• Whole-person care: Our swallowing rehabilitation experts evaluate all the ways your condition is affecting your life. This includes assessing physical, mental and emotional barriers before working with you to develop a personalized care plan.
• Experienced team: Our swallowing rehabilitation team stays current on the latest evidence-based treatments, so you can receive the highest standard of care. Our staff are also noted experts who have presented research at national and area conferences and published numerous papers and book chapters about dysphagia.
• Convenient access: With locations throughout southeast and south central Michigan and the greater Flint area, we make it easy to find the swallowing therapy you need. Our large staff and extensive network mean you can get timely treatment near home, work or school.
• Advanced diagnosis and treatment: To identify the specific disorder, one of our speech-language pathologists conducts an evaluation in conjunction with a diagnostic radiologist. We use the latest techniques to diagnose and treat children and adults who have difficulty swallowing.
• Integrated care: Our swallowing therapy team stays in close communication with your referring provider. We work together to adjust your care plan as needed, so you can get the most effective treatment. For complex cases, we also streamline referrals to other Henry Ford Health specialists.