Effect of Shaker Exercises on Swallowing Disturbance among Patients with Hyperthyroidism at a Selected University Hospital

Abstract

Background: Apparently; the most common causes of hyperthyroidism represent in Graves’ disease. Shaker Exercises implementation through head lift exercise and tongue strengthening exercises aim to improve motility and strength the muscles of the neck and enhance swallowing capabilities as well. Aim of the current study was to examine the effect of shaker exercises on swallowing disturbance among patients with hyperthyroidism at a selected University Hospital, Egypt. Design: A quazi-experimental design time series Non-equivalent design was utilized, the study conducted at surgical departments at one of University Hospital; Egypt. Research hypothesis: H1: Study group who received the Shaker Exercises will have a significant lower mean swallowing disturbance score than the control group who received only routine hospital care. H2 (a,b,c & d): Study group who received the Shaker Exercises will have higher correlation between total swallowing disturbance score and selected related sub-Items than the control group who received only routine hospital care. Sample: 60 adult male and female patients divided randomly into two equal groups, control group (n=30 patients) received the routine hospital treatment of the hyperthyroidism, and study group (n=30 patients) received routine hospital in addition to the Shaker Exercises. Tools: Tool I: Demographic and medical data sheet. Tool II: Swallowing Disturbance Questionnaire (SDQ). Results: there was a statistical significant difference among study group comparing to control group regarding the swallowing disturbance after shaker exercise interventions. Conclusion: study group patients who received the Shaker Exercise in addition to their routine hospital care "which was medical treatment" was improved significantly comparing to the control group who received only their medical treatment. Recommendation: Replicate the study on a larger group to add to solid evidence practice and replicate the study on other disease rather than hyperthyroidism that interfere with swallowing function.