Swallowing is a complex neuromuscular activity and is susceptible to problems as a result of strokes, head injuries, esophageal disorders, head and neck cancers and neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease. Swallowing disorders (dysphagia) are of particular concern and urgency because in its severe form, dysphagia can lead to aspiration pneumonia.

Our speech-language pathologists offer clinical evaluations and diagnostic tests to assess the swallow function. We work closely with patients and families to tailor a plan that can promote good eating and drinking habits while preserving health and safety.

Difficulty speaking often has to do with problems in engaging muscles involved in speech (apraxia). Speech impairments in adults are most commonly the result of a stroke, head injury or brain surgery.

Treatment focuses on strengthening the muscles used for speech, improving coordination and training in strategies for improving intelligibility of speech.

Evaluation of language disorders is a thorough process that includes expressive language, comprehension of language and reading and writing skills. Language problems may include difficulty putting words together (dysarthria), loss of the ability to comprehend words (aphasia) and many others.

Speech-language pathologists also evaluate and provide rehabilitation for cognitive deficits, which are most often associated with strokes, head injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

Therapy may include learning strategies in improving attention, memory function, organization, reasoning and problem solving, with the primary objective of returning patients to safe and functional living while maximizing independence.

Voice is assessed both perceptually and objectively using diagnostic tools, such as a computerized speech lab. There are many causes for voice disorders (dysphonia). People who use their voice for their employment are often at risk for straining the vocal cords and/or developing nodules or polyps. Other conditions that affect vocal function include spasmodic dysphonia, presbylaryngis, cancers and Parkinson’s disease, to name a few.

Voice therapy may focus on education in vocal hygiene and training in reducing vocal strain and developing a strong and clear vocal quality. Our speech-language pathologists work closely with the referring physicians to develop a treatment plan that is effective and appropriate for vocal rehabilitation.