Swallowing Solutions Newsletter February 2026
Swallowing Spotlight: Understanding Pharyngeal Hypoplasia
And the exercises that help—at any age
Pharyngeal hypoplasia is a term that sounds intimidating, but at its core, it simply describes reduced size, strength, or depth of the pharynx (the throat space that plays a key role in swallowing). When the pharynx is underdeveloped or weakened, the swallow may be less efficient, requiring extra effort, multiple swallows, or specific strategies to clear food and liquids safely.
This condition can be seen in infants, children, and adults, often associated with:
Congenital differences
Neuromuscular conditions
Prolonged tube feeding
Reduced oral experiences early in life
Deconditioning from illness or medical complexity
The good news?
The swallow is adaptable.
With the right exercises and strategies, we can often improve coordination, strength, and safety—no matter the age.
Children with Pharyngeal Hypoplasia
In young children, signs may include:
Difficulty transitioning textures
Gagging, coughing, or pocketing food
Reliance on purees or thickened liquids
Fatigue during meals
Helpful Therapy Focus Areas
Suck–Swallow Coordination
Using straws, syringes, or thick liquids encourages a more organized swallow and better pharyngeal engagement.
Resistance Through Thickness
Thicker liquids (smoothies, milkshakes, yogurt drinks, pudding) provide sensory input and resistance, which can wake up the swallow.
Small Lumen Straws
These slow the flow and promote stronger, more controlled suction and pharyngeal contraction.
Play-Based Oral Motor Work
Blowing bubbles, party blowouts, kazoo play, and whistles strengthen breath support and oral coordination that directly supports swallowing.
Audible Swallows & Repetition
Encouraging repeated swallows helps clear residue and builds endurance.
Adults & Older Individuals
In teens, adults, and seniors, pharyngeal hypoplasia may present as:
Needing multiple swallows per bite
Feeling food “stuck”
Coughing with thin liquids
Fatigue while eating
Therapeutic Strategies That Help
Suck–Swallow Exercises
Using applesauce, pudding, or thick liquids through a straw can improve pharyngeal contraction and clearance.
Bolus Control Techniques
Small, intentional sips or bites paired with focused swallows improve efficiency.
Expiratory & Breath Support Exercises
Kazoo, blowing exercises, and controlled exhalation strengthen airway protection.
Sensory-Motor Input
Cold, flavorful, or slightly thicker consistencies can improve swallow timing.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (When Appropriate)
For some individuals, VitalStim or similar modalities may support muscle activation when paired with active swallowing.
The Big Takeaway
Pharyngeal hypoplasia does not mean swallowing cannot improve.
With:
The right textures
Intentional exercises
Consistent practice
Individualized therapy
Swallowing can become safer, stronger, and more efficient.
Every swallow is a learned movement—and learning can happen at any age.