Comparative Effectiveness of Kinesiotaping and Oromotor Therapy on Oropharyngeal Dysphagia in Children with Down Syndrome: An Observational Study

Abstract Background: Down Syndrome (DS) is one of the most common genetic disorders, frequently associated with oropharyngeal dysphagia due to anatomical abnormalities and neuromuscular hypotonia. Dysphagia poses significant risks, including malnutrition, aspiration and recurrent respiratory infections. This study aimed to compare the effects of kinesiotaping (KT) and oromotor therapy on swallowing function in children with DS. Methodology: An observational study was conducted involving children with DS diagnosed with oropharyngeal dysphagia. Participants were allocated to either KT or oromotor therapy groups for four weeks. Swallowing function was assessed pre- and post-intervention using the Oral Motor Assessment Scale (OMAS) and Pediatric Eating Assessment Tool-10 (PEDI-EAT-10). Data were analyzed using paired and independent t-tests, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 20 participants completed the study (KT: n = 10, oromotor therapy: n = 10). Both groups demonstrated significant improvements in OMAS scores (p < 0.05) and reductions in PEDI-EAT-10 scores (p < 0.05) after intervention. No statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups in terms of post-intervention outcomes (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Both KT and oromotor therapy effectively improved swallowing function in children with DS. While outcomes were comparable, KT offers a practical, low-cost alternative, particularly for home-based rehabilitation in resource-limited settings.