Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Swallowing Therapy
Pharyngeal Strengthening Exercises
Laryngeal lift – Shaker
This exercise is designed to strengthen the muscles in your throat, which will in turn help your swallowing.
- Lie flat on your back with your shoulder blades and buttocks in contact with the bed/floor (fig 1).
Do not use a pillow under your head.
2. Lift your head to look at your toes, without lifting your shoulders. Imagine trying to hold a tennis ball under your chin. Perform a series of three 60-second head lifts, each followed by 60 seconds of rest.
3. Next, perform 30 head lifts with no rest between, if possible.
4. Repeat this 3 times a day, every day for six weeks. You may find it helpful to use the chart in this leaflet to document your progress.
N.B. DO NOT DO THIS EXERCISE IF YOU HAVE A SORE/STIFF NECK OR HEART PROBLEMS.
* If this is too uncomfortable, stop.
Progress chart
Contact us
If you have any queries relating to this information, please contact the Speech and language therapy service.
About this information
Service:
Speech and language therapy
Reference:
VV/010
Approval date:
20 September 2024
Review date:
1 September 2027
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Important note
This page provides general information only. It is developed by clinical staff and is reviewed regularly every 3 years for accuracy. For personal advice about your health, or if you have any concerns, please speak to your doctor.