Conclusion
dysphagia
DYSPHAGIA
Here, kinematic analysis parameters were used to quantitatively evaluate the mechanism by which treatment using the sequential 4-channel NMES brings about clinical improvement of swallowing. Compared with the 2-channel NMES, the sequential 4-channel NMES showed significant kinematic improvement of the hyolaryngeal complex. The sequential 4-channel NMES, through its activation of the suprahyoid, thyrohyoid, and other infrahyoid muscles at appropriate intervals, might lead to the physiologic circular movement of the hyoid bone, and therefore be an effective treatment for dysphagia. The disordered mechanism found in this study also provides a better understanding of NMES treatment for patients with dysphagia. However, further studies will be required to ascertain kinematic improvement of 4-channel NMES.