Treatment for Swallowing & Feeding Disorders in Fairfax, VA, and Chantilly, VA

At Virginian Rehabilitation & Wellness, we offer expert care for individuals experiencing swallowing and feeding disorders in Fairfax and Chantilly, VA, which can affect all ages from infants to the elderly.

Our convenient clinics in Northern Virginia provide comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services to address complex swallowing and feeding conditions in order to improve the quality of life for our patients.

Understanding Swallowing & Feeding Disorders that Require Therapy

Swallowing and feeding disorders can manifest through various symptoms, affecting the ability to eat and drink safely and effectively:

  • Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia), feeling that food is stuck in the throat or chest.

  • Coughing or choking during or after eating or drinking.

  • Frequent pneumonia or other respiratory infections, which may be caused by food or liquid entering the lungs.

  • Weight loss or dehydration due to problems with adequate food and liquid intake.

Common Causes and Complications of Swallowing & Feeding Disorders

Without appropriate management, swallowing and feeding disorders can lead to serious health issues like malnutrition and dehydration or aspiration pneumonia that can lead to decreased quality of life.

These disorders may be caused by a range of conditions, including:

  • Neurological disorders, such as Parkinson's disease or a stroke, which can impair the nerves controlling swallowing.

  • Physical abnormalities, such as cleft lip or palate or conditions that cause narrowing of the throat.

  • Cognitive or sensory impairments that affect the ability to eat or drink effectively.

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) which can lead to discomfort and swallowing difficulties.

Swallowing & Feeding Disorders Treatment Options in Northern Virginia

Since safe swallowing is essential for our health, swallowing disorders may lead to significant health issues such as pneumonia, or eating less and becoming weak & frail.  Luckily, swallowing can be improved with targeted therapy.

Our clinicians work with you to deliver life-changing results, including:

  • Improved oral strength for chewing skills and clearing food from the mouth

  • Decreased tongue thrust of foods

  • Safe consumption of ALL textures & consistencies of foods and liquids

  • Improved swallow strength to decrease choking, coughing, & throat clearing during meals

  • Improved head/neck posture for safe intake

  • Improved confidence in meeting hydration & nutrition needs

Treatment plans for swallowing and feeding disorders are tailored to each individual's needs and may include:

  • Speech therapy to strengthen the muscles and improve swallowing techniques.

  • Dietary modifications, including adjusting food textures and liquid consistencies to ensure safer swallowing.

  • Behavioral strategies to address issues related to cognitive or sensory impairments.

  • Positioning and environmental modifications to make eating and drinking easier and safer.

Why Choose Us for Swallowing & Feeding Disorder Treatment?

Our clinics are equipped with specialized tools and staffed by experienced speech therapists in Fairfax, VA and Chantilly, VA who understand the complexities of swallowing and feeding disorders, ensuring a compassionate and effective treatment approach. Our approach involves your goals, your family and your unique needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Swallowing & Feeding Disorders

  • While some disorders may be resolved with treatment, others require ongoing management to maintain swallowing and feeding safety.

  • These disorders can affect individuals at any age, though the causes may differ between children and adults.

  • We provide family training and support to help manage these conditions effectively at home.

Book a Swallowing & Feeding Disorders Consultation in Fairfax, VA, or Chantilly, VA

If you or a loved one is struggling with a swallowing or feeding disorder, don't hesitate to reach out to Virginian Rehabilitation & Wellness. Our expert team of speech therapists in Fairfax and Chantilly is ready to assist you with advanced treatment options.

Schedule a consultation today to start the journey toward improved health and well-being.