Dysarthria

What is Dysarthria?

Dysarthria is a condition in which there is poor control or loss of control of the muscles used in speech. Individuals with dysarthria may have weaked muscles and present with “slurred” speech sounds and demonstrate decreased speech intelligibility.  Their rate of speech may be unusually slow.

In children, dysarthria often appears alongside other diagnoses such as Down Syndrome or Cerebral Palsy. Dysarthria in adults is often a symptom following illness or injury, such as a stroke, brain injury, Parkinson’s disease, or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Parkwood clinicians have training in dysarthria to help improve communication as a result of this condition. Speech therapy goals might include adjusting speech rate, strengthening muscles, increasing breath support, improving articulation and improving communication with family members and caregivers.

In some cases, clients with these difficulties are encouraged to use augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) to enhance their ability to communicate and get desires and needs met.

Reach out to schedule a complimentary speech and language screening

CALL US: 503-894-1539

Parkwood Speech & Therapy Clinic provides on-site and remote (tele-health) speech therapy sessions for toddlers and children across Oregon. Our brick and mortar location in Portland, OR near the Bridgeport shopping mall is within ideal driving distances for families in Portland, Lake Oswego, West Linn, Tigard, Beaverton, Oregon City, Clackamas, Wilsonville, Canby and more.