Clinical Research Directory

The structured swallowing exercise program is a multimodal, systematic, and progressive swallowing rehabilitation program consisting of Isometric Neck Flexion-Extension Exercise, Jaw Opening Exercise, Jaw Range of Motion Exercise, Tongue Range of Motion Exercise, Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR), Mendelsohn Maneuver, and Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise. The exercises are organized progressively into preparation, strengthening, coordination, and functional phases. The program is delivered for 30 minutes per session, twice weekly at the hospital for 8 weeks, with additional home exercises three times weekly. Individual modifications may be made according to the participant's clinical condition, and adherence is monitored through an exercise logbook and periodic supervision.

The conventional swallowing exercise program consists of Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) and Isometric Neck Flexion-Extension Exercise, primarily targeting suprahyoid and anterior cervical muscle strengthening and hyolaryngeal excursion. CTAR includes 3 cycles of 60-second isometric exercise and 2 cycles of 30 repetitions of isotonic exercise, repeated for 3 sets per day. Isometric Neck Flexion-Extension Exercise consists of resisted neck flexion and extension, with each contraction maintained for 5-10 seconds, performed in 3 sets per day with 10-15 repetitions per set. The program is delivered for 30 minutes per session, twice weekly at the hospital for 8 weeks, with additional home exercises three times weekly. Adherence is monitored during the study.