Helping your child thrive at mealtimes
Dysphagia can affect a child’s ability to grow, thrive, and enjoy mealtimes. VitalStim® Therapy offers a safe, effective option for children of all ages, including infants in the NICU.
What is pediatric dysphagia?
Pediatric dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) can occur because of:
Left untreated, dysphagia can lead to:
Poor weight gain and growth delays.
Risk of aspiration pneumonia.
Feeding aversions and mealtime stress for families.
How does VitalStim® Therapy work for children?
VitalStim Therapy uses gentle electrical stimulation (NMES) to activate and strengthen swallowing muscles. Combined with pediatric-focused swallowing therapy, it can improve:
Safe swallowing.
Coordination of feeding skills.
Oral intake and feeding success.
VitalStim is non-invasive, FDA-cleared, and suitable for children of all ages, including infants and toddlers.
Key benefits for your child
Better coordination
Improves muscle coordination for safe, effective swallowing.
Growth and development
Supports growth and development by improving oral intake.
Less risk and dependence
Reduces the risk of aspiration and dependence on feeding tubes.
Confident mealtimes
Builds confidence at mealtimes for the child and the family.
Measurable progress
Shows measurable progress, often within 6 to 20 sessions.
Testimonials
Listen to real therapists talk about the successes they have had with their young patients.
Talk with a current VitalStim provider
If your child has trouble swallowing or feeding, the next step is a conversation with a speech-language pathologist, occupational therapist or doctor. The VitalStim Provider Registry lists therapists who offer this therapy and keep their VitalStim training current, so you can feel confident in the provider you choose.