At LEAP Centre, we understand the challenges that come with dysphagia, a condition characterised by difficulty in swallowing. Our dedicated team offers comprehensive treatment options, including the innovative VitalStim Plus therapy, to support individuals experiencing swallowing difficulties. We are committed to providing compassionate, effective care to improve our clients’ quality of life.
Understanding Dysphagia:
Dysphagia can affect individuals of all ages and may result from various medical conditions. It can lead to complications like malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration pneumonia. Early intervention and proper treatment are crucial for managing dysphagia effectively.
We begin with a detailed assessment to understand the severity and nature of the swallowing disorder. This helps in creating a personalised treatment plan tailored to each individual’s needs.
One of our key treatment methods is VitalStim Plus Therapy, an advanced form of neuromuscular electrical stimulation. This non-invasive therapy uses electrical stimulation to re-educate the throat muscles necessary for swallowing.
Our approach combines VitalStim Plus with traditional swallowing exercises and therapies. This multimodal treatment plan is designed to maximise the effectiveness of dysphagia therapy.
Our therapists are specially trained in dysphagia management and the use of VitalStim Plus. They are dedicated to providing the highest standard of care.
We provide education and support to families, helping them understand dysphagia and how to manage it effectively at home.
We work closely with other healthcare providers involved in our clients’ care to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach.
At LEAP Centre, we understand the challenges that come with dysphagia, a condition characterised by difficulty in swallowing. Our dedicated team offers comprehensive treatment options, including the innovative VitalStim Plus therapy, to support individuals experiencing swallowing difficulties. We are committed to providing compassionate, effective care to improve our clients' quality of life.
Dysphagia can be caused by various factors, including neurological disorders (such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis), structural abnormalities (such as head and neck cancer or esophageal strictures), muscle weakness or paralysis (due to conditions like muscular dystrophy or myasthenia gravis), or aging-related changes. Symptoms of dysphagia may include:
VitalStim Plus Therapy combines electrical stimulation with traditional dysphagia therapy techniques to enhance swallowing function. The therapy involves placing electrodes on the neck muscles responsible for swallowing and delivering low-level electrical pulses to stimulate muscle contractions. These controlled muscle contractions help strengthen weakened muscles, improve coordination, and retrain swallowing patterns. VitalStim Plus Therapy is safe, comfortable, and effective, with research supporting its efficacy in improving swallowing function in individuals with dysphagia. Our therapists are highly trained in the use of VitalStim Plus and will tailor the therapy to meet each client's specific needs and goals.
If you or your loved one is facing challenges with dysphagia, LEAP Centre is here to help. Contact us to learn more about our dysphagia treatment options, including VitalStim Plus therapy, and take the first step towards improved swallowing function.
Reference: Alvarez, L., Novak, C., Czachorowski, K., Steenerson, R., Gonzalez-Fernandez, M., & Roth, C. R. (2017). Combined Intensive Aphasia and Dysphagia Therapy After Stroke: The Connection (CSTROKE) Randomised Controlled Trial. Stroke, 48(11), 3145-3152
Our goal is to enhance the safety and comfort of our clients’ swallowing ability, allowing them to enjoy meals and maintain proper nutrition. We are committed to staying at the forefront of dysphagia treatment to offer the best possible outcomes.
If you or your loved one is facing challenges with dysphagia, LEAP Centre is here to help. Contact us to learn more about our dysphagia treatment options, including VitalStim Plus therapy, and take the first step towards improved swallowing function.
We offer a comprehensive range of therapy services, including occupational therapy, speech
therapy, and physiotherapy. Each service is tailored to meet the unique needs of our clients,
ranging from developmental therapies for children to rehabilitation and support for adults. We
also offer group sessions, individual sessions, and intensive therapy blocks.
If you or your family member is facing challenges with speech, mobility, daily activities, or
other areas of physical and cognitive function, therapy might be beneficial. We recommend
scheduling a consultation with our specialists for a professional assessment and personalised
recommendations.
Our clinic provides services for all age groups. We have specialised programs for children,
adolescents, adults, and the elderly, ensuring age-appropriate and effective therapy for every
client.
Therapy sessions are scheduled based on the individual needs and availability of our clients.
Each session typically consists of 45 minutes of direct therapy followed by client/family
feedback and therapist documentation/planning.
Our therapists are highly qualified and licensed professionals. They hold degrees in their
respective fields and have undergone extensive training and certification. Continuous education
is a priority for our team, ensuring we stay updated with the latest therapy techniques and
research.
Yes, we actively collaborate with schools, physicians, and other healthcare providers to ensure
a comprehensive and coordinated approach to our clients’ care. This multidisciplinary
collaboration is essential for holistic treatment planning and effective outcomes.
Our approach is client-centred, evidence-based, and holistic. We focus on understanding
each client’s unique needs and goals, and we tailor our therapy plans accordingly. We emphasise
a collaborative approach involving the client, their family, and other professionals as needed.
We accept NDIS funding, private health, medicare, and private pay. For all NDIS
self-managed or private paying clients, payment is required on the day of your session. Our
administrative team can assist you in understanding your benefits and navigating the billing
process.
Yes we do! In addition to clinic-based sessions, we also offer therapy in the home, daycare
settings, or at schools. Sessions outside of the clinic incur a travel fee consistent with the NDIS
travel rate guide.
We welcome and value your feedback. You can provide feedback directly to your therapist,
through our reception, or by emailing info@leaptherapies.com.au. We are committed to
continuous improvement and take your insights seriously.
Absolutely. We understand the importance of a good therapist-client match and will facilitate
a change if needed to ensure the best therapeutic experience and outcome.
Getting started is easy. Simply contact us via phone, email, or our website to schedule an
initial consultation. During this session, we will discuss your needs and create a personalised
therapy plan.
Our dedicated team provides holistic occupational therapy, speech therapy, and physiotherapy, tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
