Implementing two treatment approaches to childhood dysarthria

To evaluate the effects of intensive voice treatment targeting vocal loudness (the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment [LSVT]) on vowel articulation in dysarthric individuals with idiopathic Parkinson's disease (PD).

Our 15 years of research have generated the first short- and long-term efficacy data for speech treatment (Lee Silverman Voice Treatment; LSVT/LOUD) in Parkinson's disease. We have learned that training the single motor control parameter amplitude (vocal loudness) and recalibration of self-perception of vocal loudness are fundamental elements underlying treatment success. This training requires intensive, high-effort exercise combined with a single, functionally relevant target (loudness) taught across simple to complex speech tasks. We have documented that training vocal loudness results in distributed effects of improved articulation, facial expression, and swallowing. Furthermore, positive effects of LSVT/LOUD have been documented in disorders other than Parkinson's disease (stroke, cerebral palsy). The purpose of this article is to elucidate the potential of a single target in treatment to encourage cross-system improvements across seemingly diverse motor systems and to discuss key elements in mode of delivery of treatment that are consistent with principles of neural plasticity.

Through a variety of approaches, speech-language pathologists and audiologists have produced strong evidence that treatments are generally potent. However, we have largely ignored the accepted standards for clinical-outcome testing used throughout the broader research community (e.g., by other clinical disciplines, federal regulators, and third-party payers). Several clinical professions recognize a comprehensive model for organizing and scaffolding the many forms of clinical-outcome research. An adaptation of this five-phase model of clinical-outcome research is examined as a means for structuring forms of clinical research throughout audiology and speech-language pathology. Within the organizing structure, relationships become apparent between types and grades of scientific evidence and the processes underpinning evidence-based practice which ultimately lead to decisions on the status of intervention protocols. Readers will be able to distinguish the phases of clinical-outcome research in a comprehensive model. Readers will be able to identify relationships between the structure of the model and broadly recognized concepts associated with the terms 'efficacy' and 'effectiveness.' Readers will be able to identify indicators of quality for controlled clinical trials.