Effect of an individualized digital coaching program on swallowing function in stroke patients

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Digital Health

Background:

• Dysphagia is a frequent post-stroke complication.
• Home-based rehabilitation offers a viable alternative or supplement to traditional dysphagia management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of an individualized digital coaching program for improving swallowing function in stroke survivors.

Main Methods:

• 109 stroke patients were randomized into an intervention group (6-week digital coaching) or a control group (standard care).
• Primary outcome: Functional Oral Intake Scale (FOIS). Secondary outcomes: Swallowing Quality-of-Life (SWAL-QOL) questionnaire and pneumonia incidence.

Main Results:

• Significantly more patients in the intervention group recovered from dysphagia at 3 weeks compared to the control group.
• The intervention group showed significantly greater improvement in SWAL-QOL scores.
• No significant difference in pneumonia incidence was observed between groups.

Conclusions:

• Individualized digital coaching effectively enhances swallowing function and quality-of-life in stroke patients.
• This program shows potential as a home-based rehabilitation strategy for post-stroke dysphagia.