Abstract: Objective To observe the effect of massage at acupoints on head, neck and face on dysphagia after stroke. Methods 60 stroke patients with dysphagia were randomly divided into treatment group (n=30) and control group (n=30). The control group received conventional rehabilitation, including acupuncture and swallowing training, and the treatment group received acupoint massage on head,neck and face in addition. They were assessed with Standardized Swallowing Assessment (SSA) before and 4 weeks after treatment. Results The score of SSA improved in both groups (P<0.001), and improved more in the treatment group than in the control group (P<0.001) after treatment. Conclusion Conventional rehabilitation with acupoint massage is more effective on dysphagia after stroke.

Key words: stroke, dysphagia, massage, rehabilitation