Mendelsohn Maneuver
The Mendelsohn maneuver is a swallowing technique used to improve the safety and effectiveness of swallowing, especially for people with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). It involves a specific practice of swallowing where the individual deliberately pauses at the peak of their swallow. This helps to strengthen the throat muscles and increases awareness of the swallowing process, making it easier to control food and liquids, reducing the risk of choking or aspiration (food entering the airway). It is often recommended by speech therapists as part of a rehabilitation program for those with swallowing difficulties.
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The Mendelsohn Maneuver is a technique used to improve swallowing, particularly for individuals who have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). It involves voluntarily holding the swallow at its highest point to strengthen the muscles involved in swallowing. To perform it, a person swallows an edible substance, then tries to pause and hold their throat muscles tight for a few seconds before releasing. This helps enhance muscle coordination and strength, making swallowing safer and more effective. It's often recommended as part of speech or occupational therapy for those with swallowing challenges.