Dysphagia and Deep Cervical Flexor Muscles

"DCF Muscle Strength Evaluation~DCF muscle strength was determined using the 5-step Craniocervical Flexion Test (CCFT) performed with a Chattanooga Stabilizer ™ Pressure Biofeedback Unit which was developed by Jull et al. \[33, 34\]. The CCFT is based on the craniocervical flexion movement, which is provided by DCF muscle contraction. The CCFT includes 5 pressure increments starting with 20mmHg.Activation score ranges from 0 to 10. The performance index is determined by both the highest pressure level and the number of repetitions.~Evaluation of the DCF Endurance The DCF endurance test, which is a valid and reliable method, was used to measure DCF muscle endurance \[36\]. Conducted in supine, endurance is measured by calculating the time (in seconds) an individual can raise their head at minimal flexion angle."