What is VitalStim® Therapy?

VitalStim® Therapy is a new medical break through used in the treatment of swallowing disorders. This new therapy, which is not painful, uses a non-invasive electrical stimulation to help re-educate the throat muscles for swallowing. Treatment involves an active rehabilitation program during which small electrical currents stimulate inactive musculature commonly found in patients with dysphagia. With repeated therapy, patients are able to learn or re-learn functional muscle use necessary to initiate or re-establish swallowing.

Who is a candidate for this type of therapy?

Whether or not an individual is a candidate for using VitalStim therapy is dependent on the results of a swallowing evaluation, which may include a swallow video. The results of the swallowing evaluation are then used to determine the correct placement of electrodes on an individual’s throat. The main goal of therapy is to strengthen weak muscles and help improve the function of the swallowing mechanism. This has been an effective treatment in patients with a wide variety of primary diagnosis, including stroke, head or neck cancer, respiratory conditions, degenerative neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis, Laryngomalacia, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome, CHARGE Syndrome, Prader Willi Syndrome, Moebius Syndrome, Cleft Lip and/or Palate, and Noonan Syndrome.

How does electrical stim work?

Two to four electrodes (smaller sized electrodes for children) are placed on the front portion of the neck. The electrodes deliver a small, carefully calibrated current, through an FDA approved electrical stimulation device. The patient and therapist proceed with typical therapy strategies that may involve practicing swallowing skills, compensatory safe swallow strategies, or oral motor stimulation. Over the course of treatment, the patient may progress from swallowing pureed to regular type food. Some patients make improvements in as few as 3 sessions, while some may require 20 or more sessions (60 minutes per session).

What is the process for using VitalStim® therapy?

1. Physician’s referral for a swallow evaluation is required prior to VitalStim® Therapy
2. Swallowing evaluation including: review of patient history, completed functional assessment of swallowing, a modified barium study (if client is able)
3. Treatment plan including VitalStim® therapy if indicated

Who can administer VitalStim® therapy?

Specialty certification is required for Speech-Language Pathologists or Registered Occupational Therapists to administer VitalStim®. Please call Children’s Therapy Center (715-749-3890) to set up an appointment with a certified VitalStim® therapist.

How is VitalStim® billed?

VitalStim® therapy is billed as normal swallow treatment with an extra charge to cover the cost of replacement of the electrodes. Since it is a new technique, medical insurance may or may not reimburse the service. However, Children’s Therapy Center will provide your insurance carrier with necessary information to make an informed decision about reimbursement.