Swallowing Problems

For swallowing issues, the pathologist asks about the details of the problem, patient’s medical history, and diet. The patient’s reflexes plus throat and mouth muscles are examined by the therapist. Consistencies with various foods may also be checked. The therapist then suggests some exercises to strengthen oral muscles.

Communication Problems

For communication problems, the origin, nature, and impact of the patient’s difficulties are assessed. The S-LP will ask questions and show pictures to evaluate every aspect of the patient’s language difficulties. After a detailed assessment, follows a diagnosis and therapy plan.

Stammering or Stuttering

Adult stammering can be a childhood problem that continued into adulthood. For some, stuttering is triggered during certain activities, while some may experience it all the time. It can be embarrassing and some patients may even avoid social interactions. S-LP helps them in speaking fluency and to communicate confidently and effectively. The therapy techniques will depend on the individual patient’s needs. Practices that can help include learning to release the tension, easy-breathing, or gentle starts.

Aphasia

Aphasia is a form of communication problem that arises as a result of a stroke. The damage to the part of the brain controlling language causes this issue. Aphasia poses problems in talking, reading, writing, or even understanding. The patient practices and relearns language skills and is taught to use other ways for effective communication by the therapist.

Articulation Issues

An articulation disorder is when the patient faces difficulty in producing particular sounds or consistently mispronounces some. For instance, some pronounce rabbit as “wabbit”, not being able to pronounce the “r” sound. These difficulties are commonly addressed by scheduling one-on-one sessions with the S-LP (therapist).