Non-oropharyngeal exercise and its benefits in the prevention and treatment of dysphagia: a scoping review

Background: Swallowing difficulties are becoming more common in older adults, increasing the need for effective treatment. Researchers are exploring exercises beyond the mouth and throat, so existing studies were reviewed to understand their potential impact on dysphagia. 

Methods: We performed a scoping review following PRISMA guidance on the effect of non-oropharyngeal exercise on the prevention or treatment of swallowing impairments. Data sources included Ovid MEDLINE^®, Ovid EMBASE^®, Ebsco CINAHL with full text, Cochrane Library and Web of Science Core Collection. 

Results: Eleven studies were included from an initial number of 13,421. There was only one randomized control trial (RCT). No studies focused on resistance exercises. There was no standardized measurement of dysphagia. Quality assessment of the studies was generally rated as poor. 

Conclusions: Current literature provides limited evidence to recommend non-oropharyngeal exercises in clinical practice. Robust RCTs are needed to identify effective exercises and population groups, and to develop programs feasible in the community.