SwallowFIT, a targeted exercise program designed to retrain the brain’s ability to control the muscles involved in swallowing

A $1.9 million U.S. Department of Defense–funded Phase 2 clinical trial will test SwallowFIT, a targeted exercise program designed to retrain the brain’s ability to control the muscles involved in swallowing — a function often compromised in Parkinson’s disease — in active-duty service members, veterans, or their relatives who have been diagnosed with the disease.

SwallowFIT applies the principles of neuroplasticity (the brain’s ability to adapt and form new connections) to help reorganize the signals sent to the muscles involved in swallowing. Through repeated practice, it strengthens the muscles of the mouth, tongue, and throat while retraining the brain to send clearer signals.

In earlier pilot testing, SwallowFIT helped patients improve their ability to swallow. If the clinical trial succeeds, researchers believe it could pave the way for proactive swallowing therapy to become part of early care for dysphagia. Click here to learn more.