|
Speech/Language Pathology
Speech/Language pathology is the diagnosis and
treatment of individuals with speech, language, swallowing or voice disorders.
The goals of speech/language therapy are to improve an individual's ability
to effectively communicate and to maximize function of oral structures
and swallowing.
Conditions treated by Speech Pathologists include:
- language delay/disorder
- articulation and phonology delay/disorder
- head injury
- stroke (CVA)
- hearing impairment
- cleft palate
- neurological disease
- Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, cerebral
palsy
- developmental delay
- ALS
- attention deficit disorder
- laryngectomy
- voice disorder
- stuttering
- dysphagia (swallowing disorders in children and
adults)
Speech/Language Pathology evaluation includes
obtaining a medical history, informal observations and formal testing.
Evaluation results are discussed and therapy goals developed with the patient
and/or family. A treatment schedule is then designed. Evaluation may include:
- hearing screening
- oral motor skills-including those needed for
production of speech sounds and swallowing
- articulation and speech sound production
- voice
- receptive and expressive language skills
- reading and writing skills
- auditory comprehension skills
- cognitive skills
- modified barium swallow
X-ray
services are also used in Speech/Language Pathology. Modified barium swallow
is used to assess the person's swallowing ability and function. This test
is performed by a radiologist in conjunction with the speech pathologist
to examine the movement of structures involved in swallowing and to determine
whether aspiration is present, the reason for it and possible treatment
programs.
Treatment programs
are developed by the speech/language pathologist, in conjunction with other
health professionals when appropriate, to provide a comprehensive, multidisciplinary
approach. Programs are tailored to each person's individual needs, as identified
in the evaluation, and may include assistive devices to augment communication
such as communication boards, electronic systems.
|
