Facio-oral tract therapy

F.O.T.T. is a comprehensive treatment concept for patients with facial and oral disorders developed by Kay Coombes in the 1980s. It is primarily aimed at people with neurological disorders who have difficulty swallowing, chewing, breathing or speaking.

The concept is based on a detailed examination of all structures involved — from the face, mouth and throat to the esophagus — and takes into account the complex interrelationships between these functions. A special feature is the holistic 24-hour approach, which integrates therapeutic measures into the entire daily routine in order to avoid aspiration and to make food intake safe.

The therapists work with specific facilitation techniques to improve the sensitivity, motor skills and coordination of the muscles involved. Particular attention is paid to safe food intake, effective saliva control, oral care and respiratory coordination, always working on functional, everyday activities.

Areas of application:

• Swallowing disorders after stroke
• facial movement disorders
• Breathing and voice problems
• saliva control disorders

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