This randomized controlled single-blind study aims to investigate the effect of kinesiology taping combined with resistance exercises on suprahyoid muscle thickness and swallowing function in patients with stroke-related dysphagia. A total of 36 participants will be randomly assigned to an intervention group receiving real kinesiology taping and a control group receiving placebo taping, both combined with standardized swallowing exercises for 6 weeks. Outcome measures include ultrasonographic evaluation of oropharyngeal muscles (geniohyoid, mylohyoid, anterior digastric, and tongue muscles), swallowing function assessed by the Volume-Viscosity Swallow Test, EAT-10, T-SWAL-QOL, Dysphagia Handicap Index, FOIS, and Functional Ambulation Level. This study will contribute to determining effective rehabilitation methods for improving safe swallowing in post-stroke patients.
Patients aged between 50 and 80 years
Diagnosed with stroke
Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score greater than 22
Voluntary participation with written informed consent
Open wounds or unresolved skin problems in the neck area
Known allergy to kinesiology tape or its components
Medically unstable conditions
Primary esophageal disorders (e.g., achalasia, upper esophageal sphincter dysfunction)