Neural Basis of Speech A1

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Submitted by: Hafsa Ahsan

SAP ID: 60470


MS Semester 1
Course: Neural Basis of Speech
Submitted to: Hina Samiullah
Assignment 1
Topic: Importance of studying neural Basis of Speech in MS SLP
Introduction
It is crucial for anyone working in the field of speech-language pathology (SLP) to comprehend the
complex mechanisms of the human brain. For those pursuing a Master of Science in Speech-
Language Pathology (MS SLP), an understanding of the neurological foundations of speech is very
important. It is pertinent to understand that the speech mechanism is rooted inside the cerebral
matter and its peripheral organ systems. This high kneaded connection provides the foundation for
understanding and treating certain speech conditions thereby leading to therapeutic and key
outcomes for a better sustaining lifestyle.

This assignment explains theoretical understanding while incorporating real-world applications that
affect patient outcomes and clinical practice.

Importance of neuroscience curriculum in MS SLP


The rationale for the importance of studying neuroscience in the MS SLP curriculum comes down
to one essential idea - whether you are treating a child for a misarticulated /s/ or /r/, a person who
stutters, a patient whose had a stroke and can no longer use language, or someone who is hearing
impaired, the essence of treatment and all clinical improvement is always about changing some
aspect of the patient’s behaviour, perception, or cognitive state. The moment you invoke the idea of
behavioural, perceptual, and/or cognitive adaptations, one must fully realise that what we
are really talking about are changes to the structure and operation of the nervous system itself.
Everything we do as clinical speech-language pathologists will have a direct impact on the very
nature, anatomy, and function of the client’s nervous system.

Benefits of studying neural basis of speech


Students will ultimately,

(1) Argue intelligently for the benefits of rehabilitation with other professionals or insurance
companies.

(2) Understand scientific literature on the functioning of the brain during normal and disordered
speech-language and hearing behaviours.

(3) Better understand brain-behaviour relationships in order to make appropriate clinical


assessments and treatment decisions, and lastly.

(4) Become more creative as a rehab specialist by enhancing their own conception of neuro
-rehabilitation and its potential for a given client. (Andreatta, 2019)

Following are some detailed reasonings for studying neural basis in MS SLP.

Improving the Precision of Diagnosis

SLP practitioners are better equipped to diagnose patients by having a deeper understanding of the
brain processes that underlie speech and language. Aphasia, dysarthria, and apraxia of speech are
examples of neurological disorders resulting from certain brain traumas or illnesses. A thorough
grasp of the brain underpinnings enables medical professionals to identify the particular type and
location of these deficits, resulting in more focused and customised therapy regimen (Brookshire,
2015).
Providing Guidance for Evidence-Based Practice

New findings clarifying the intricacies of brain processes linked to speech and language are
contributing to the ongoing evolution of the science of speech-language pathology (SLP). MS SLP
students and professionals may remain up to date on the newest scientific findings by researching
the neurological foundation of speech. This understanding serves as the foundation for evidence-
based practice, guaranteeing that treatments are supported by the most reliable and recent scientific
data (ASHA, 2021).

Formulating Successful Intervention Techniques

Creating successful therapeutic interventions requires a deep understanding of the brain


mechanisms underlying speech production and processing. For example, the ability of the brain to
reorganise itself by generating new neural connections, known as neuroplasticity, may be used to
construct rehabilitation programmes that optimise recovery for individuals suffering from speech
and language impairments (Kleim & Jones, 2008).

Taking Care of diverse Clinical Populations

The term "neurological basis of speech" refers to a broad category of illnesses and diseases,
including those with acquired, degenerative, and developmental origins. SLP practitioners may
more effectively serve the requirements of a variety of clinical populations—from people
recuperating from strokes or managing neurodegenerative disorders to toddlers with developmental
speech delays—by researching these brain systems (Wertz, LaPointe, & Rosenbek, 2018).

Encouraging Multidisciplinary Cooperation

Understanding the brain underpinnings of speech enables collaborative collaboration with various
medical specialists, including occupational therapists, neurologists, and neuropsychologists.
Treatment outcomes are more holistic when a collaborative approach is used to offer comprehensive
care for individuals with complicated speech and language problems (ASHA, 2021).

Conclusion
Conclusively a deep understanding of the neural underpinnings of speech empowers SLP
professionals to provide high-quality care and improve the lives of individuals with speech and
language disorders.
References

Andreatta, R. D. (2019). Neuroscience Fundamentals for Communication Sciences and Disorders.


San Diego, CA: Plural Publishing.
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association. (2021). Evidence-based practice in
communication disorders. Retrieved from https://www.asha.org

Brookshire, R. H. (2015). Introduction to neurogenic communication disorders. Mosby.

Kleim, J. A., & Jones, T. A. (2008). Principles of experience-dependent neural plasticity:


Implications for rehabilitation after brain damage. Journal of Speech, Language, and Hearing
Research, 51(1), S225-S239. doi:10.1044/1092-4388(2008/018)

Wertz, R. T., LaPointe, L. L., & Rosenbek, J. C. (2018). Aphasia and related neurogenic language
disorders. Thieme.

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