Advice after your nerve block for surgery
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Swallowing Therapy: Base of tongue strengthening Exercises(2) Tongue protrusion (Masako)
To control the food and fluid during the swallow, the back of the tongue contacts the back of the throat and squeezes food and drink down into the oesophagus (food pipe).
This swallow technique is designed to strengthen the base of tongue and improve this action.
- Protrude your tongue and hold it between your teeth.
2. Swallow hard, using your saliva (not a drink).
3. Repeat 25 times per day, 6 out of 7 days per week for at least five weeks.
4. You will not be able to do 25 consecutive swallows, so aim to do 5 at any one time.
You may find it helpful to use the chart in this leaflet to document your progress.
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/019
Approval date:
13 December 2024
Review date:
1 November 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.