Intensive speech therapy to address bulbar problems in children with neuromuscular disorders

Swallowing and speech problems are common and progressive in nature in children with neuromuscular disorders (NMD), which can lead to reduced participation in society. Children with NMD often receive speech language therapy. This therapy typically focuses on compensation strategies, such as avoiding certain foods or speaking more slowly. Additionally, there are options for muscle and function training, but little is known about the effectiveness of these treatments. 

Aim and approach

This study investigates whether intensive speech language therapy, focusing on articulation, swallowing and training of the muscles in the mouth and throat area, can stabilize or reduce swallowing and speech problems in 50 children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and myotonic dystrophy type 1. A unique aspect of this study is that, in addition to assessing the impact of intensive speech language therapy on symptoms, ultrasound imaging of the oral muscles is used to determine the effects of the training on muscle quality.