This exploratory clinical trial aims to investigate the mechanism of sequential muscle contractions during normal swallowing processes, including spoon, straw, and cup feeding, in children aged 2 to under 10 years without swallowing disorders. Surface electromyography (sEMG) will be used to evaluate activation patterns of the orbicularis oris, submental, and hyoid muscles during liquid, semi-solid, and solid intake.
The study seeks to characterize the timing, duration, amplitude, and coordination of swallowing-related muscle activity in typically developing children. Findings from this study are expected to provide foundational physiological data to inform the development of pediatric-specific neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) protocols for dysphagia treatment.
Children aged 2 to under 10 years
Children without a diagnosis of dysphagia
Children without congenital brain lesions or respiratory conditions (e.g., bronchopulmonary dysplasia [BPD], respiratory distress syndrome [RDS]) that may affect the swallowing process
Children whose legal guardians provide informed consent for participation
Refusal to provide consent for participation in the study
Refusal to undergo the study procedures or assessments
Determined by the principal investigator to be unsuitable for participation -Meeting any of the above exclusion criteria -