Timing selection of acupuncture and rehabilitation training for patients with dysphagia after stroke

Objective To compare the clinical efficacy of acupuncture and rehabilitative training at different timing selection in the treatment of dysphagia after stroke. Methods A total of 80 patients with dysphagia after ischemic stroke were selected as research objects, and were randomly divided into two groups, with 40 cases in each group. Patients of two groups were given acupuncture and swallowing function rehabilitation training, and the intervention was performed at acute stage of onset within two weeks in the observation group, and at recovery period from two weeks to six months of onset in the control group. The clinical effects of the two groups were compared. The swallowing function was evaluated by Functional Oral Intake Scale(FOIS)scores and Voice Frequency Signaling System(VFSS)scores, and the quality of life was assessed by Swallowing-related Quality of Life Scale. Results The total effective rate of observation group was 90.0%, which was significantly higher than 72.5% in the control group(P<0.05); after treatment, the scores of FOIS, VFSS and Swallowing-related Quality of Life Scale scores were significantly higher, and the observation group was significantly higher than the control group, the difference was statistically significant(P<0.05). Conclusion Acupuncture combined with rehabilitation training can achieve better curative effect in patients with dysphagia after stroke. Intervention and treatment in acute phase can better improve swallowing function and curative effect.