Founder/Owner Assential Therapies Inc. Park Ridge, Illinois, United States
Abstract:
Feeding therapy is generally the first stop for children experiencing atypical feeding and picky eating patterns. Behavioral treatments are successful with some children yet not others. This presentation explores the impact of undiagnosed medical issues on oral behaviors. Timely and effective partnership between the feeding therapist and medical professionals can significantly alter the course and outcomes of feeding therapy. Summary of presentation: Feeding therapy is generally the first stop for children experiencing behavioral feeding issues including extreme picky eating, difficulty navigating specific food textures, slow eating, ritualistic meal times, small volume intake, and anxiety while trying new foods. Ability to breath without disruptions, sound digestion, and integrity of the GI track are the basic prerequisites for a happy feeding experience. Feeding therapist’s understanding of breathing-swallowing coordination, basic digestion, and GI issues can significantly alter the course, duration, and outcomes of feeding therapy. This presentation will introduce basic structures of the mouth, pharynx, GI track, and preliminary process of digestion. We will learn about common upper respiratory issues and GI disorders seen in children experiencing feeding difficulties. We will explore how respiratory and digestive issues can alter oral behaviors impacting the passage of food from mouth to stomach. We will review case studies to glimpse into the process of clinical reasoning during evaluations as well as planning oral motor and behavioral treatments. We will learn about different professionals that form the multidisciplinary team and their role on the team. We will discuss strategies to effectively communicate with the team members and ideas for forming your own community-based team. The presentation will conclude with questions, answers, and discussion.Â
Learning Objectives:
At the completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
Describe undiagnosed medical issues on oral behaviors
Explain how respiratory and digestive issues can alter oral behaviors impacting the passage of food from mouth to stomach
Use clinical reasoning during evaluations and in planning oral motor and behavioral treatments