Welcome to the ORIEMS FIT RESEARCH DIGEST, where we uncover fascinating studies that highlight innovative approaches to health and wellness.
Today’s post explores how Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES - a niche of EMS) supports swallowing functions in individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) suffering from dysphagia.
(Scroll to the end of each post to find a link to the original study, often with full PDFs—perfect for building your research collection.)
What Is This Research About?
Original Article Name:
Treatment of Dysphagia in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors:
Remedios López-Liria, Jennifer Parra-Egeda, Francisco A. Vega-Ramírez, José Manuel Aguilar-Parra, Rubén Trigueros-Ramos, María José Morales-Gázquez, and Patricia Rocamora-Pérez.
Where and When Was This Research Conducted?
This research comes from multiple esteemed Spanish institutions, including:
- University of Almería, Spain: Known for excellence in health and physiotherapy research.
- Poniente Hospital, Spain: A key medical institution in Andalusia.
- University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain: Renowned for interdisciplinary research.
The systematic review was published in 2020 in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, a globally trusted peer-reviewed journal.
Who Was This Study About?
This review included 11 studies, representing data from 402 patients with Parkinson’s disease and associated swallowing issues (dysphagia).
What Did the Researchers Find?
General Positive Findings
NMES was identified as a potentially effective therapy for improving swallowing function in people with Parkinson's disease.
It helps activate the muscles responsible for swallowing, addressing weakness and dysfunction.
Specific Positive Findings Supported by Evidence
-
Improved Swallowing Function
- NMES enhanced the coordination and speed of swallowing.
- Studies reported a 51% reduction in general swallowing disorders when NMES was paired with targeted exercises.
-
Increased Quality of Life
- Patients experienced improvements in social interactions and reduced risks of aspiration, a major cause of pneumonia in PD patients.
-
Effective Treatment Regimens
- One study reported that 80 Hz stimulation for 20–30 minutes per session led to noticeable improvements in swallowing strength and safety over a few weeks.
- NMES sessions supervised by professionals had a higher success rate.
-
Reduction in Aspiration Risk
- Regular use of NMES lowered the risk of food or liquid entering the lungs, preventing life-threatening conditions like aspiration pneumonia.
Why Is This Important?
For individuals with PD, swallowing difficulties can lead to malnutrition, dehydration, and severe health risks.
NMES offers a non-invasive, targeted solution to strengthen muscles and improve swallowing safety without surgery or heavy reliance on medication.
How Could This Help EMS Users?
- Better Swallowing Health: For those experiencing mild to moderate dysphagia, EMS devices designed for muscle stimulation could provide an additional tool to manage symptoms.
- Improved Safety: By reducing the risk of aspiration, NMES ensures greater confidence in eating and drinking.
- Support in Rehabilitation: When paired with guided exercises, EMS devices enhance therapeutic outcomes.
Let’s Hear from You!
Have you or someone you know experienced swallowing issues?
Would you consider NMES as part of your treatment plan? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below—we’d love to learn from you!
Research Details
Original Article Name:
Treatment of Dysphagia in Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Simplified Title:
How NMES Improves Swallowing Function in Parkinson’s Disease
Link to Study:
Read the Full Study Here
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