Is head balance a major determinant for swallowing problems in patients with spinal muscular atrophy type 2?

J Child Neurol. 2008 Aug;23(8):919-21. doi: 10.1177/0883073808315418. Epub 2008 Apr 10.

Abstract

A child with spinal muscular atrophy type 2 was referred for evaluation of eating and swallowing problems. The dysphagia evaluation demonstrated coughing during eating and drinking and occasionally stertorous when eating solid food. The videofluoroscopic swallow study showed a late upper esophageal sphincter opening with hypopharyngeal residue, more with solid food than with thin liquid. His lumbar lordosis associated with anterior tilted pelvis and his problems with head balance due to weak neck musculature caused compensatory behavior like a retracted neck and mandible. This position negatively influences the opening of the upper esophageal sphincter. This case supported the idea that dysphagia in spinal muscular atrophy type 2 is caused by both a bulbar component as well as a treatable posture component.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Child, Preschool
  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / diagnosis
  • Craniofacial Abnormalities / physiopathology
  • Deglutition Disorders / etiology*
  • Esophageal Sphincter, Upper / physiopathology
  • Fluoroscopy
  • Head Movements* / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neck Muscles / physiopathology
  • Pharyngeal Muscles / physiopathology
  • Postural Balance* / physiology
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophies of Childhood / diagnosis*
  • Spinal Muscular Atrophies of Childhood / physiopathology
  • Tongue / physiopathology
  • Video Recording