Swallow RehApp

Swallow RehApp

  • A tool to assist people undergoing swallow rehabilitation. Swallow RehApp app MUST be used under the guidance of a speech language therapist.
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Swallow RehApp app By RehApp Mobile Health

Features

  • Dysphagia exercise plan.
  • Education and information.
  • Track progress.
  • Dysphagia diet and recipes.
Clinical review 

3.5 star review


Read a clinical review below.
Security and privacy Does the app:
  • Collect medical information? No
  • Require a login? Yes
  • Have password protection? Yes
  • Have a privacy policy? Yes
  • Require internet access to use? Yes

Read more about safety and security when using apps.

Brochures:
Tips to improve your privacy and security [PNG, 200 KB] Health Navigator Charitable Trust, NZ
Staying safe online(external link) Netsafe, NZ
Cost Paid
How to get the app

This app is for people with oropharyngeal dysphagia (difficulty swallowing due to problems in the pharynx and mouth rather than problems in the oesophagus). It MUST be used under the guidance of a speech language therapist. The app comprises a few sections as follows:

  • the education section allows users to understand swallowing, dysphagia and contains videos showing different areas in which a swallow can be disordered

  • the nutrition section includes recipes and a diet plan for a dysphagia friendly diet (IDDSI - 4)

  • the journal section allows users to record food intake, and also records exercises and rating scales completed by the user

  • the exercises section has the ability to set up exercises with a reminder alarm to support rehabilitation

  • the rating section allows users access to 3 different rating tools - the Eating Assessment Tool (EAT-10) Voice Handicap Index (VHI-10) and Reflux Symptom Index (RSI).

For the complete app description, go to the App store(external link) or for a more detailed review, see reviews below.

PROS CONS 

✔ Education section on swallowing problems.

✔ Journal section has a food journal, notes and a rating scale, and it automatically tracks completed exercises.

✔ Nutrition section has a 7-day dysphagia menu (and shopping list) for people with swallowing difficulties, developed by a registered dietitian. It is based around the IDDSI - level 4.

✔ Exercise section. This should be set up by the user’s speech language therapist who chooses from 10 different exercises and sets the timing, frequency and repetitions. There are videos and detailed descriptions for each exercise. The user tracks repetitions which link into the journal. Push notifications can be set to remind the user to perform the exercises.

✔ Rating Scale section. Three questionnaires for assessing eating, voice handicap and reflex symptoms. A notification can be set for future re-assessments. The results can then be graphed to view progress.

✔ Video tutorial for how to use the app.

✘ No free version.

✘ Cannot export data.

✘ Last updated 6 years ago.

✘ Only available on iTunes  (App store) as a phone app.

Clinical review

3.5 star review



Reviewer: Lauren Hill, Speech Language Therapist, Auckland
Date of review: June 2024
Platform: Apple
Version: 1.1.3
Comments: The Swallow Rehapp app could be a useful tool to support people with dysphagia to manage their rehabilitation. It MUST be used in collaboration with a Speech Language Therapist. The videos of exercises are clear and easy to follow and may be useful reminders of how to perform exercises set by a speech language therapist. The journal provides a useful record of exercises and rating scales completed. The nutrition section and dysphagia diet needs to be used with caution as it is set to a puree level diet (IDDSI - 4), however this may not be the most suitable diet. It is recommended to always follow the recommendations of your speech language therapist with food and drink modifications. 
Safety concerns: This app should only be used under the guidance of a speech language therapist. The dysphagia diet plan should only be used in consultation with your speech therapist and dietician.
New Zealand relevance: Yes.

Clinical review

5 star review



Reviewer: Jeremy Steinberg, GP, FRNZCGP
Date of review: July 2019
Platform: Apple
Version: 2.3.2
Comments: This app can assist patients who are undergoing swallow rehabilitation for oropharyngeal dysphagia (difficulty swallowing due to problems in the pharynx and mouth). Conditions that can cause type of dysphagia include stroke, head or neck trauma, neurological conditions and surgery. Swallow rehabilitation has limited evidence but it is low risk, low cost and has a scientifically plausible mechanism for being effective. It generally consists of dietary modification and specific exercises and swallowing manoeuvres. The app should NOT be used without the guidance of a speech language therapist. The therapy needs to be tailored to the deficits that are found by the clinician. 
Safety concerns: None.
New Zealand relevance: Relevant to New Zealanders.

Consumer guide: how to choose a health app
Clinicians guide: how to choose a health app
NZ health app library
Swallowing difficulty apps
Stroke | Mate rehu ohotata
Brain injury

Disclaimer: The NZ Health App Library is a free consumer service to help you decide whether a health app would be suitable for you. Our review process is independent. We have no relationship with the app developers or companies and no responsibility for the service they provide. This means that if you have an issue with one of the apps we have reviewed, you will need to contact the app developer or company directly.

Credits: Healthify editorial team. Healthify is brought to you by Health Navigator Charitable Trust.

Read more at: https://healthify.nz/apps/s/swallow-rehapp/
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