Speech therapists can identify the most effective methods of communication for patients who have aphasia Overview of Cerebral Function The cerebrum is divided by a longitudinal fissure into 2 hemispheres, each containing 6 discrete lobes: Frontal Parietal Temporal Occipital read more , dysarthria, or verbal apraxia or who have had a laryngectomy:
Expressive aphasia: A letter or picture board
Mild to moderate dysarthria or apraxia: Breathing and muscle control plus repetition exercises
Severe dysarthria or apraxia: An electronic device with a keyboard and message display (print or screen)
Postlaryngectomy: A new way to produce a voice (eg, by an electrolarynx—see Laryngeal Cancer: Rehabilitation Rehabilitation Ninety percent of laryngeal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma. Smoking, excessive alcohol use, lower socioeconomic status, and being male and > 60 years increase risk. Early diagnosis is... read more
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Speech therapists may also assist in the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders.
(See also Overview of Rehabilitation Overview of Rehabilitation Rehabilitation aims to facilitate recovery from loss of function. Loss may be due to fracture, amputation, stroke or another neurologic disorder, arthritis, cardiac impairment, or prolonged... read more .)
