The effects of a volitional breathing technique on swallowing and respiratory coordination in individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis: A pilot investigation

• Author / Creator

  Bohaichuk, Amanda R

• Individuals with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) often present with aberrant respiratory-swallowing relationships. In this pilot study, eight individuals with ALS learned a volitional breathing technique designed to promote safe swallowing. The primary focus of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the technique in (1) promoting expiratory breathing after swallowing and (2) improving patients’ perceptions of swallowing. As a group, the participants showed a statistically significant increase in the average number of typical swallows (expiration after swallowing) following training. With regard to perceptions of swallowing, there were no obvious differences between participants’ baseline and post-treatment quality of the life scores on a questionnaire; however, participants’ responses to qualitative interview questions were generally positive and suggest that participants found the treatment technique to be beneficial and effective in improving their safety and comfort while swallowing.

• Subjects / Keywords

  • Swallow-respiration coordination
  • Lung volume
  • Dysphagia
  • Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis

• Graduation date

  Spring 2012

• Type of Item

  Thesis

• Degree

  Master of Science

• DOI

  https://doi.org/10.7939/R3GW4P

• License

  This thesis is made available by the University of Alberta Libraries with permission of the copyright owner solely for non-commercial purposes. This thesis, or any portion thereof, may not otherwise be copied or reproduced without the written consent of the copyright owner, except to the extent permitted by Canadian copyright law.