Point/Counterpoint: Electrical Stimulation for Dysphagia: The Argument Against Electrical Stimulation for Dysphagia

Abstract

Surface electrical stimulation for dysphagia is still a controversial subject. Some studies tout the benefits of using electrical stimulation (e-stim) for improving a disordered swallow. It is important to ensure that the discussion about e-stim is balanced. In this article, I discuss selected counterpoints, including e-stim's intended use, the objective findings of scientific findings, and whether speech-language pathology training in the area of swallowing anatomy and physiology adequately prepares clinicians to use e-stim for dysphagia. Overall, clinicians are urged to take into account all sides of this debate and make educated decisions about whether it should be a part of their clinical practice.