The Informed SLP

We’ve talked about respiratory muscle strength training for swallow rehab, but the focus has been on expiratory strength. Now, Li et al.’s new RCT offers some inspiring evidence for inspiratory training.

Check out our research review “INSPIREing new treatment for post-stroke dysphagia” to find

*details of this study’s findings and how we might apply them to our practice

*links to our other research reviews on respiratory muscle strength training and a printable effort scale, and

*5 minutes CE credit.

Take a deep breath and dive in at www.TheInformedSLP.com/reviews.

The research: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.brainres.2024.149396

[Visual description: Image text reads, "Could inspiratory muscle training be our cherry on top?" Cartoon image of an illustrated ice cream sundae that represents dysphagia treatment, with scoops topped by therapy tools including an EMST device, a CTAR ball, a tongueometer, and additional swallowing rehabilitation equipment. The sundae glass is labeled "Dysphagia TX Parlor".]

Adult medical SLPs are likely familiar with the Frazier Water Protocol (AKA the free water protocol) but the evidence for using it in the pediatric medical space is still developing.

Gillman and team have found that the free water protocol doesn’t seem to increase risks of aspiration pneumonia in adults. And Lu et al.’s new case series suggests that it may be safe, feasible, and productive for some kids who are NPO. Check out our research review “Use of the free water protocol in pediatric dysphagia: A sip in the right direction?” to learn:

*what the free water protocol is,

*how these scientists applied it in their studies,

*when (and for whom) we may be able to apply it in our own practice.

Have you been implementing free water protocols in your setting? Tell us how you and your teams are doing it in the comments!

Find it at https://www.theinformedslp.com/review/Use-of-the-Free-Water-Protocol-in-pediatric-dysphagia-A-sip-in-the-right-direction

The research:
https://doi.org/10.1002/lary.70489
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00455-016-9761-3

[Visual description: Image text reads, "Would you trial the free water protocol with some NPO children? Swipe for cutting-edge research and tell us your thoughts in the comments. Results of a new study using free water with NPO kids showed: Improved weight trajectories, Reduced oral aversion, Better participation in feeding therapy, and Progression to thin liquids for 2 of the 3 participants. The free water protocol could be promising for children with dysphagia. But it’s new science, so we have to move carefully (and in teams). In our research review, you'll find: The science behind the free water protocol, Details on how these researchers used it in their study, and Multi-disciplinary team considerations to make when trialing it with kids. So, is it time to use the free water protocol with children? Learn more at theinformedslp.com"]