Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation in Dysphagia Management: Clinician Use and Perceived Barriers

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) is a relatively new yet controversial approach to the treatment of dysphagia that is gaining clinical popularity. The purpose of this study was to contribute to our understanding of the clinical viability of NMES, in light of empirical controversy, by describing current trends in the use/nonuse of NMES and clinician-perceived barriers to use among a sample of speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in the state of Iowa. The focus of this study highlights the clinically relevant question of why clinicians may not adopt a new treatment modality, or specifically, why clinicians are not using NMES in their treatment of individuals with dysphagia, despite its presence as a viable treatment option. The perceptions and misconceptions related to NMES as reported by the nonusers indicate the necessity of not only continuing investigations into the use and outcomes of NMES but also targeting better dissemination of these results to best address evidence-based practice. Adapted from the source document