Speech therapists can identify the most effective methods of communication for patients who have aphasia, 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)
Speech therapists may also assist in the diagnosis and treatment of swallowing disorders.
(See also Overview of Rehabilitation.)
