There are many reasons that people may have problems
producing understandable speech. In order to help
them, speech-language pathologists have to know
the anatomy and physiology of the speech production
systems and the other supporting biological systems.
This ranges from knowledge of the respiratory
system, to how the larynx (the voice box) works,
to detailed knowledge of the oral structures.
For example, in order to help someone produce
a clear "t" it is critical that speech-language
pathologists not only know that the tongue makes
contact with the roof of the mouth just behind
the front teeth, but also know about the muscles
of the tongue, jaw, respiratory system, head,
neck, and larynx.
When helping someone who has problems swallowing,
speech-language pathologists also need to have
detailed knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
They need to know: how the jaw, tongue, and lips
function when chewing; how the larynx (voice box)
moves to protect the lungs; and how tongue movements,
the swallowing reflex and the opening of the esophagus
to accept food are coordinated.
Child
Development | The
Physics of Sound | Neuroscience
|
How Language
Works | Hearing
| Special
Education
|
