Physiology of Swallowing – A review

Abstract

Swallowing is the process which consists of 3 Phases, i.e. Oral, Pharyngeal and oesophagal phase. In these 3 phases, many cranial Nerves and around 56 muscles are involved. Swallowing process is a multi-complex task which involves volitional and Reflexive behaviour. Any abnormal Neuro muscular Physiological component can produce dysphagia. The goal of dysphagia rehabilitation is to identify and treat abnormalities in swallowing. The purpose of this review is to know the central and peripheral mechanism of the physiology involved in swallowing which is the manipulation of food including oral and voluntary stages that take place in pharynx and larynx.