What are feeding and swallowing impairments?

Feeding impairments are characterized by difficulties related to eating and/or drinking.  Feeding impairments may be behavioral/sensory based or medically based.  When children have a feeding impairment, mealtimes can be discouraging or frustrating for everyone in the family.  The child with a feeding impairment may need specialized intervention to achieve success at mealtimes.

What are the signs of an impairment?

Some signs that indicate a child may have a feedinig impairment include refusing food, having a significantly limited food repertoire, gagging or choking on specific foods, difficulties with chewing or swallowing, evidence of gastrointestinal problems or reflux, and limited weight gain or poor nutrition.

How will therapy help?

Depending on the issues the child is experiencing, feeding therapy may address position or posture changes, oral motor exercises related to feeding, use of alternative utensils based on the child's individual needs, changes in textures or temperatures of food, and food chaining to expand a child's food repertoire.

Getting Started

Community Therapy Services has therapists who are specially trained to provide treatment for children who are experiencing feeding or swallowing impairments.  If you have questions about feeding and swallowing issues, call us at 630-444-0077 and ask to talk to a therapist regarding feeding issues.  Or call our clinic director to make an appointment.