Variations in Head-Neck Posture and Hyoid Kinematics in Patients With Stroke and Aspiration Risk: A Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Biomechanics
• Swallowing Disorders

Background:

• Stroke is a leading cause of disability, often resulting in dysphagia and aspiration.
• Altered head-neck posture and hyoid kinematics are suspected contributors to aspiration risk in stroke survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate changes in head-neck posture and hyoid kinematics in stroke patients with varying aspiration risk.
• To explore the relationship between head-neck posture and hyoid movement in this population.

Main Methods:

• A prospective observational study involving 24 stroke patients, categorized into high and low aspiration risk groups.
• Assessment of head-neck posture using craniovertebral angle (CVA) and cervical range of motion (CROM).
• Evaluation of hyoid kinematics through anterior and superior horizontal displacement and motion duration.

Main Results:

• The high aspiration risk group demonstrated significantly reduced CVA and CROM compared to the low risk group.
• Diminished hyoid displacement was observed in the high aspiration risk group.
• Significant positive correlations were found between head-neck posture parameters (CVA, CROM) and hyoid displacement.

Conclusions:

• Stroke patients with high aspiration risk exhibit distinct alterations in head-neck posture and hyoid kinematics.
• Abnormal head-neck posture appears to be a significant factor influencing swallowing function in stroke survivors.
• These findings may inform new diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for dysphagia post-stroke.