Semin Speech Lang 2015; 36(04): 271-282
DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1562910
Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Electropalatography for Older Children and Adults with Residual Speech Errors

Fiona Gibbon
1   Speech and Hearing Sciences, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
,
Alice Lee
1   Speech and Hearing Sciences, Brookfield Health Sciences Complex, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
› Author Affiliations
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
12 October 2015 (online)

Abstract

Most residual speech errors (RSEs) involve abnormal positioning or movement of the tongue. However, it is not possible under normal circumstances to view directly the actions of the tongue during production of these distorted articulations. The visually inaccessible location of the tongue can often make precise diagnosis difficult in cases of RSEs, and intervention can be a particular challenge for clinicians when speech errors persist in older children and adults. Electropalatography (EPG) is a technique that can provide objective and clinically relevant data about details of tongue articulation during speech. Furthermore, biofeedback with EPG offers the possibility of an effective intervention for RSEs. This tutorial provides an overview of EPG and describes how the technique can contribute to our knowledge and treatment of abnormal tongue-palate contact in older children and adults with RSEs. An illustrative case study of a child with RSEs affecting fricatives and affricates is included.

 
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