Effect of Position and Support on Oral-Motor Skills of a Child with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

The effects of position (upright vs reclining) and support (held vs chair) on the development and maintenance of feeding behavior were examined in a child with bronchopulmonary dysplasia and gastroesophageal reflux. A reclining position initially facilitated acceptance and swallowing with relatively rapid generalization to an upright position. Oral-motor skills did not differ across levels of support. Practice of emerging motor skills preceded increases in vomiting, as well as episodes of respiratory distress. This study illustrates a methodology that can be employed to elucidate complex interrelationships among oral-motor skills, gross motor skills and functioning, and symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux.