Using Motor Learning Approaches for Treating Swallowing and Feeding Disorders: A Review

Abstract

Purpose This article discusses children’s development of mature swallowing and feeding as a process of skill acquisition and considers the applicability of motor learning concepts for advancing these capabilities in school-aged children. Method The motor learning literature was reviewed, with concentration on (a) concepts that are relevant for the acquisition of skill and (b) structuring practice experiences to optimize learning. Results The discussion includes (a) swallowing physiology with a focus on motor task components, (b) normal development of eating skills, (c) factors that may slow or disrupt normal development, (d) motor learning concepts found to influence learning efficiency and performance adequacy, (e) applications to the assessment and treatment of pediatric swallowing and feeding disorders, and (f) an illustrative case history. Conclusion Deficiencies in swallowing and feeding may encompass eating, saliva control, swallowing during oral hygiene, and swallowing medications. Motor learning literature provides a rich foundation of evidence-based theory and educational strategies for the development and remediation of motor-based skills such as swallowing and feeding.