A method for quantifying swallowing function can include subjecting swallowing segments and non-swallowing segments of vibrational data to processing selected from the group consisting of adaptive trimming, false positive reduction, and a combination thereof. Preferably the vibrational data represents swallowing activity, is from a sensor positioned on the throat of a patient, and is associated with at least one axis selected from the group consisting of an anterior-posterior axis and a superior-inferior axis. Preferably a processing module operatively connected to the sensor performs the processing of the swallowing segments and the non-swallowing segments of the vibrational data. A device comprising a processing module and a sensor such as a single-axis accelerometer or a dual axis accelerometer can perform one or more steps of the method.
