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Exploring Australian speech-language pathologists' use and perceptions ofnon-speech oral motor exercises
Anna F Rumbach1, Tanya A Rose1, Mynn Cheah1
1a School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences , The University of Queensland , Brisbane , Australia.
Disability and Rehabilitation
|January 30, 2018
Summary
Most Australian speech-language pathologists do not use non-speech oral motor exercises for speech sound disorders. However, some use them for dysarthria, primarily to improve articulator awareness, despite a lack of clear evidence.
Area of Science:
- Speech-language pathology
- Clinical practice
- Rehabilitation
Background:
- Non-speech oral motor exercises (NSOME) involve manipulating oral structures to improve function.
- Their use in treating speech sound disorders lacks a strong evidence base.
- This study investigates Australian speech-language pathologists' (SLPs) practices and perceptions regarding NSOME.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore Australian SLPs' utilization of NSOME.
- To understand the rationales behind using or not using NSOME in clinical practice.
- To examine perceptions of NSOME efficacy for speech sound difficulties.
Main Methods:
- An online survey was completed by 124 practicing Australian SLPs.
- Participants worked with paediatric and/or adult clients with speech sound difficulties.
- The survey gathered data on NSOME use and clinical reasoning.
Main Results:
- The majority of SLPs reported not using NSOME for paediatric or adult speech sound disorders.
- Over half of SLPs working with adult dysarthria clients reported using NSOME.
- The primary rationale for NSOME use was to enhance articulator awareness/placement.
Conclusions:
- Most Australian SLPs do not widely endorse NSOME for speech sound disorders due to limited evidence.
- NSOME use was most common in treating dysarthria, with improved awareness as a key goal.
- Findings offer insights into current Australian SLP practices and perceptions of NSOME.