The Role of Strength Training in Speech Sound Disorders
Posted by Callier Library on June 6, 2009
Strengthening of the articulators is commonly used to help children improve sound production accuracy, even though the relationship between weakness and speech function remains unclear. Clinicians considering the use of strength training must weigh both the theoretical foundations and the evidence supporting this practice. Widely accepted principles of strength training are available to guide the evaluation of strength training programs. Training specificity requires that exercises closely match the targeted functional outcome. The exercises must overload the muscles beyond their typical use, and this overload must be systematically progressed over time. Finally, the strength training program must incorporate adequate time between exercise sessions to allow for recovery. The available research does not support the position that nonspeech oral motor exercises (NSOMEs) targeting increased strength is beneficial for improving speech accuracy. An example of a speech-based strengthening program is provided to illustrate how appropriate training principles could lead to more positive outcomes. A much larger body of research is needed to determine the conditions under which strength training is most appropriately applied in the treatment of childhood speech disorders.
Robert, SLP said
As a speech-language pathologist working with children, I have rarely encountered a child with an articulation disorder that can be attributed to weakness. In most cases, the inaccuracy of articulation is due to other factors such as incoordination, habits that have not been outgrown, or poor phonological awareness, none of which can be remediated with oral-motor strengthening. Where I do see a possible role for oral-motor exercises is for increasing sensory awareness of the articulators and encouraging self-monitoring.
aileem said
how importance is the articulation in our lives??? what about the role of speech in the sound production???