Neuroplasticity and Swallowing

Author: Martin, Ruth

Source: Dysphagia, Volume 24, Number 2, June 2009 , pp. 218-229(12)

Publisher: Springer

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Abstract:

Recent research has suggested that the central nervous system controlling swallowing can undergo experience-dependent plasticity. Moreover, swallowing neuroplastic change may be associated with behavioural modulation. This article presents research evidence suggesting that nonbehavioural and behavioural interventions, as well as injury, can induce swallowing neuroplasticity. These studies indicate that while swallowing and limb neuroplasticity share certain features, certain principles of swallowing neuroplasticity may be distinct. Thus, an understanding of swallowing neuroplasticity is necessary in terms of explaining and predicting the (1) behavioural effects of injury to the swallowing nervous system and (2) effects of swallowing interventions applied in rehabilitation.

Keywords: Neuroplasticity; Swallowing; Cerebral cortex; Rehabilitation; Experience; Oropharyngeal; Deglutition; Deglutition disorders

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s00455-008-9193-9

Affiliations: 1: Orofacial Neuroscience Laboratory, The School of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Elborn College, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, The University of Western Ontario, Room 2528, London, ON, Canada, N6G 1H1, Email: remartin@uwo.ca

Publication date: 2009-06-01