CTAR: A Powerful Exercise for Swallowing Difficulties
Swallowing difficulties, or dysphagia, can significantly impact quality of life, making it challenging to eat and drink safely. The Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) exercise, often performed using devices like the PhagiaFlex device, has emerged as an effective method for strengthening the muscles involved in swallowing. In this blog post, we'll explore what CTAR is, how it works, and the benefits of using the PhagiaFlex device.
Understanding Dysphagia
Dysphagia can result from various conditions, including stroke, neurological disorders, head and neck cancer, or general aging. It often leads to complications such as malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia. Rehabilitation exercises play a crucial role in managing and improving dysphagia.
What is CTAR?
The Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) exercise is designed to strengthen the suprahyoid muscles, which are critical for the swallowing process. These muscles are located under the jaw and help elevate the hyoid bone and larynx, facilitating the safe passage of food and liquid from the mouth to the esophagus.
How to Perform CTAR
CTAR involves pressing the chin down against a resistant surface, engaging the suprahyoid muscles. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Seated Position: Sit upright in a chair with good posture.
Chin Tuck: Begin with your chin slightly elevated. Press your chin down against a resistive object or device. This can be done using a hand, a rolled-up towel, or a specialized device like the PhagiaFlex. Slowly tuck your chin down towards your chest, ensuring your neck is not overly strained, like you are nodding “yes”.
Hold and Release: Hold the press for a few seconds, then slowly lift your chin back up. Repeat the exercise until your muscles feel fatigued, or as directed by your speech language pathologist (SLP).
The Role of PhagiaFlex
PhagiaFlex is a device specifically designed to provide optimal resistance for CTAR exercises. It consists of a highly durable, z-shaped, flexible plastic with a chin pad and a chest pad. The resistance level is adjustable by adjusting the position of the device. Placing it higher on the chest results in higher resistance, allowing users of various strength levels to perform the exercise more effectively and comfortably.
Benefits of Using PhagiaFlex
Adjustable Resistance: PhagiaFlex offers customizable resistance, making it suitable for individuals of different strength levels and at different stages of dysphagia rehabilitation.
Ergonomic Design: The device is designed to fit comfortably under the chin, reducing strain and improving exercise efficiency.
Portability: PhagiaFlex is lightweight and portable, enabling users to perform CTAR exercises at home or on the go.
Hands Free Model: There is also a hands free PhagiaFlex model which slides onto an adjustable height bedside table.
Benefits of CTAR Exercises
Muscle Strengthening: Regular CTAR exercises help strengthen the suprahyoid muscles, improving their ability to elevate the hyoid bone and larynx during swallowing.
Improved Swallowing Function: Strengthening these muscles can lead to better control over the swallowing process, reducing the risk of aspiration and other complications.
Enhanced Quality of Life: By improving swallowing function, CTAR exercises can enhance overall quality of life, making eating and drinking more enjoyable and less stressful.
Improved Neck Strength and Posture: CTAR has been clinically shown to improve neck strength and posture which can contribute to safer swallowing during meals.
Incorporating CTAR into Dysphagia Therapy
CTAR exercises, especially when performed using devices like PhagiaFlex, should be incorporated into a comprehensive dysphagia therapy plan. It’s essential to consult with a speech-language pathologist or a healthcare professional who can tailor the exercise regimen to individual needs and monitor progress.
Conclusion
The Chin Tuck Against Resistance (CTAR) exercise is a valuable tool in the management of dysphagia. With the aid of devices like PhagiaFlex, individuals can perform these exercises more effectively, leading to improved muscle strength and better swallowing function. If you or a loved one is dealing with dysphagia, consider discussing CTAR and PhagiaFlex with your healthcare provider to see how they can be integrated into your rehabilitation plan.
By embracing these exercises, those with swallowing difficulties can take an active role in their recovery, enhancing their ability to enjoy meals safely and confidently.