== Posture Assessment == The assessment of posture is discussed [[Postural Principles Useful in Speech Therapy|here]]. These same tests can be repurposed in order to assess how the system changes in response to deglutition.<ref name=":1" /> * Look for any compensation during swallowing:<ref name=":1" /> ** Is the head in the correct position? ** Is there a forward head position? * When posture is corrected, observe if deglutition is: <ref name=":1" /> ** Possible ** Possible, but only with difficulty ** Impossible ** NB: if it is impossible to correct the client’s position and achieve a swallow, it will be necessary to consider the role of each member of the MDT (e.g. speech therapist, physiotherapist and manual therapist).<ref name=":1" /> * Consider the possibility of paralysis (e.g. to [[Facial Nerve|cranial nerve VII]]) ** NB: the degree and severity of paralysis can vary between patients [[File:Swallowing flow diagram.jpg|thumb|Figure 1. Swallowing flow chart.]]