Often when we think of a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP), the image of a school-age child comes to mind. We visualize a child with a lisp, stutter or another difficulty with pronunciations of words. With May being Better Hearing and Speech Awareness Month, we’d like to share some of the ways both kids AND adults can benefit from working with a Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) in the Ivy Rehab Network. An SLP can help with a variety of issues following illness or injury – some not seen as speech-related at all!
Dysphagia
An SLP can evaluate and treat patients that have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia). Patients who have suffered a stroke or are struggling with a degenerative disease like Parkinson’s or ALS, sometimes have difficulty with swallowing due to the progression of the disease. Children who may be considered a “picky eater” because of a variety of sensory processing issues can struggle with difficulty swallowing as well. An SLP can help with these difficulties!
Weakened or Raspy Voice
An SLP can help you find and restore your weakened voice. Our Speech-Language Pathologists have specialized training in how to improve voice amplitude, power, and fluency. Overuse, an injury or disease can cause a weakened or raspy voice. SLPs can help with exercises that strengthen vocal muscles and improve the clarity of your voice no matter what the cause.
Aphasia
Aphasia is the ability of the brain to translate thought into language expression. Often after a stroke or brain injury, an individual may have difficulty with “word-finding”. A patient will say, “It’s on the tip of my tongue but I can’t recall the word!” It is one of the most frustrating conditions for a patient. For the 180,000 people who struggle with aphasia every year, those that work with an SLP show significant signs of recovery.
Post-concussion Treatment
For athletes (pro, amateur, child or adult) wanting to get back in the game after a concussion, an SLP can help you return to your sport! Studies show that concussions can cause memory issues, focus and attention difficulties, and struggles with critical thinking skills. Speech-Language Pathologists are experts at treating the side effects of a concussion, can help you fully recover, and return to your sport as well as resume daily functioning.
We’re Here to Help
You are not alone if you are struggling with one of these conditions. If you’re located in the Virginia area, there are many Speech-Language Pathologists in the Ivy Rehab Network that are here for you. Even if you don’t have a prescription from your doctor, you can still see one of our SLPs. You can view all of our locations that offer Speech Therapy for both children and adults by clicking here.
