Pediatric Feeding/Dysphagia FAQs
What is pediatric feeding disorder? How is it different from “picky eating?”
“Picky eating” is a common phase in childhood, often associated with the cognitive phase of development where children are asserting autonomy separate from their caregivers. “Picky eaters” maintain appropriate growth patterns despite their preferences.
In contrast, Pediatric Feeding Disorder (PFD) is characterized by impaired oral intake not appropriate for the child’s age and associated with medical, nutritional, feeding skill, and/or psychosocial dysfunction. It impacts the child’s overall health and well-being. More information can be found here.
If you have concerns about your child’s eating, we do not recommend you “wait and see.” Our feeding therapists can complete a comprehensive evaluation to determine if a PFD diagnosis characterizes your child and what we can do as a team to help.
Why did my feeding therapist refer to an occupational therapist, a registered dietician, a psychologist, or a gastroenterologist?
Feeding is a complex act that requires the use of several body systems. What may look and feel like a “behavior issue” typically has roots in an experience that made eating challenging, uncomfortable, or stressful for the child. This is not anyone’s fault! Our therapists are passionate about doing the detective work necessary to get to the heart of what’s making feeding hard, and addressing that directly with you and your child. Therefore, we take a holistic, team approach that often requires referrals to create a comprehensive feeding team.
How long does feeding therapy typically last?
The duration of feeding therapy varies based on the individual needs and goals of your child. Some children may benefit from short-term therapy to address specific challenges, while others may require ongoing support and skill development.
Do you work with children with food allergies or other dietary restrictions?
Yes, we are experienced in working with children who have food allergies, dietary restrictions, and specific medical conditions that impact their diet. We create customized feeding plans to accommodate these needs safely.
Is feeding therapy covered by insurance or funding sources?
Coverage for feeding therapy varies by insurance plans and funding sources. Our team can assist you in navigating insurance claims and identifying potential funding options to make feeding therapy more accessible.
Do you offer virtual or telehealth feeding therapy services?
Yes, we offer virtual and telehealth options for feeding therapy when appropriate. Our therapists can provide guidance and support remotely to ensure continuity of care and generalization to the home environment.
What should I expect during a feeding therapy session for my child?
Feeding therapy sessions are conducted by our experienced therapists in a responsive, supportive environment. At MST, we believe strongly in the value of the therapy triad: your child, your therapist, and you! Your therapist will advise you on what foods to bring to therapy to explore, and your child will engage in activities designed to improve their feeding skills. You will also collaborate with your feeding therapist to develop a structure, routine, and schedule for your individual family during mealtimes.
How do I know if my baby is getting enough milk?
Our trained CLC can help teach feeding cues, ideal amount of time to feed your baby, signs of getting enough milk, counseling, and more!
Can you check my baby’s latch and positioning?
Of course! This is a great question and can be addressed in your comprehensive evaluation with our CLC/SLP.
Is it normal to feel overwhelmed or frustrated when breastfeeding?
YES! Breastfeeding is beautiful, but it can be very stressful. It is not automatic as society wants one to believe. There are nuances to breastfeeding where our skilled CLC/SLP can counsel you through this.
Can you show me different feeding positions when breastfeeding?
Absolutely. There are many different feeding positions! Our trained CLC/SLP can work with you and your baby to facilitate the ideal positions for the dyad.
Can you help with bottle-feeding or transitioning between breast and bottle?
Yes! Our CLC/SLP is trained to identify bottle feeding skills, transitioning, and nipple confusion.
Adult Feeding/Dysphagia FAQs
What is Adult Swallowing Therapy, and who can benefit from it?
Adult Swallowing Therapy is a specialized program designed to address swallowing difficulties in adults. It can benefit individuals who experience challenges with swallowing due to various factors, including stroke, neurological conditions, post-surgical issues, or other medical conditions that affect swallowing.
What are the signs and symptoms of swallowing difficulties in adults?
Common signs and symptoms of swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) in adults may include coughing or choking during meals, frequent throat clearing, difficulty swallowing solids or liquids, unintended weight loss, or a sensation of food getting stuck in the throat.
How does the assessment process work for adult swallowing therapy?
Our assessment process typically involves a comprehensive evaluation of your swallowing function. This may include clinical assessments, review of imaging studies (such as videofluoroscopy or endoscopy), and discussions about your medical history and dietary habits.
What types of swallowing difficulties can you address through therapy?
We can address various swallowing difficulties, including difficulty with managing food textures, aspiration (food or liquid entering the airway), reduced tongue or throat muscle strength, and issues related to post-surgery or medical treatments affecting swallowing.
How long does adult swallowing therapy typically last?
The duration of swallowing therapy varies based on individual needs and goals. Some adults may require short-term therapy to address specific challenges, while others may benefit from ongoing support and skill development.
Is swallowing therapy covered by insurance or funding sources?
Coverage for swallowing therapy varies by insurance plans and funding sources. Our team can assist you in navigating insurance claims and identifying potential funding options to make therapy more accessible.
What should I expect during a swallowing therapy session?
Swallowing therapy sessions are conducted by our experienced therapists in a supportive and professional setting. You will engage in exercises and techniques designed to improve your swallowing function, and our therapists will provide guidance and support throughout the session.
Do I need to bring my own food to evaluations and therapy?
It is recommended to supply any particular foods that you do not feel safe with or that you feel are particularly troublesome for you. This allows us to explore them in a compassionate environment as well as assess your swallow safety with this food.
Does a Fiberoptic Endoscopic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES) hurt?
FEES is not designed to hurt, but some patients report slight discomfort. Your endoscopist will complete the evaluation responsively and adjust to your comfort as much as possible.
Can I eat before a FEES?
Yes, this evaluation allows you to eat and drink before, during, and after the assessment.
Will I need a repeat FEES?
It is likely that a FEES may need to be completed more than once to ensure treatment is progressing effectively.
If you or your child is experiencing feeding difficulties, our Feeding Therapy Program can help.
Contact Metro Therapy Center today to schedule an appointment or learn more about how we can support you. Let us guide you or your loved ones toward enjoyable and nourishing mealtime experiences.
Please note that regular attendance is crucial for continuity of care. Effective September 16, 2024, cancellations and no-shows will incur fees. Fees apply even for late arrivals or illness-related cancellations unless the session is rescheduled within 6 business days. Please ensure you review these policies.