Speech-language pathologists (SLPs) are experts in communication, and they play an important role in the rehabilitation of patients who are experiencing difficulty communicating, eating, and swallowing after an illness or injury. Some of the patients that need and could greatly benefit from the services of a speech pathologist are those who have suffered a stroke or a brain injury, and those who have been diagnosed with oral cancers or Parkinson’s disease. Speech pathologists usually work with these patients to help them get back to the highest possible level of speech and language functioning.
If you are thinking of paying for the services provided by a speech pathologist for your loved one, here are some of the things you can expect from treatment.
A Comprehensive Speech and Language Assessment
The first step speech pathologists take is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s speech and language skills and their ability to swallow properly. The speech therapist will review the patient’s medical history for context and identify what factors are affecting their speech and language abilities. In addition, they conduct interviews, make observations, and use standardized tests to assess various aspects of a patient’s speech challenges in order to determine the appropriate and tailored treatment plan.
Speech Therapy Exercises
Speech therapy exercises for rehab patients can vary depending on the specific needs and goals of each individual. Here are some common exercises that speech therapists may use to help patients improve their communication skills:
Oral Motor Exercises
These focus on strengthening the muscles used for speech production and may include lip and tongue exercises, such as pursing the lips, sticking out the tongue, and moving it from side to side.
Articulation Exercises
These target specific speech sounds that may be affected by the patient’s medical condition and may involve producing individual sounds and the repetition of words or phrases. Over time, the patient can improve their articulation and become more fluent.
Respiratory Exercises
Medical conditions such as stroke can affect the respiratory system, and speech therapists may guide patients through breathing exercises, such as diaphragmatic breathing, to improve breath control and speech.
Naming Exercises
Patients who have suffered a medical event may have difficulty with the retrieval of words. Speech pathologists can present pictures, objects, or categories and help the patient name them, with a focus on finding the correct words.
Voice Therapy
Speech-language pathologists can also provide voice therapy for individuals with voice disorders, such as hoarseness, vocal nodules, or vocal cord dysfunction, and help them find the best possible voice through vocal hygiene education and vocal exercises to improve voice production and vocal health.
Swallowing and Feeding Therapy
Speech therapists also work with helping patients with swallowing and feeding disorders by developing specialized strategies and exercises to improve the swallowing function and prevent aspiration.
Speech Pathologist in Sherman, TX
Carrus Rehabilitation Hospital offers superior speech therapy services from a licensed speech pathologist in our facility. Our speech therapists play a big role in the full recovery of our patients.
Our inpatient rehabilitation facility is focused on helping patients who have medical conditions that have caused the development of certain impairments, including speech and swallowing challenges. We are highly experienced in treating and helping rehabilitate patients who have suffered a stroke or brain injury and offer a wide range of amenities in our world-class center.
The health, safety, and comfort of your loved one are our priority. For any questions or to schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (903) 870-2600.
