Language and speech problems are common symptoms of post-concussion syndrome (PCS). If you’re constantly struggling to find the right words to finish a sentence or express your ideas clearly in a conversation, it’s easy to become frustrated and angry. We can help.

The screening, diagnosis, and treatment of people with communication and swallowing difficulties are the main goals of the medical specialty of speech-language pathology (SLP). SLPs, commonly referred to as speech therapists or speech pathologists, treat patients of all ages, including infants and the elderly, who have issues with their speech, language, voice, cognition, or swallowing.

SLPs work primarily to assist people in enhancing their communication abilities and general quality of life. The following are some of the main specialties in speech-language pathology practice:

• SLPs provide therapy for people with speech impairments, including articulation problems (problems pronouncing sounds), fluency issues (stuttering), and voice problems (hoarseness or other aberrant vocal qualities).
• SLPs evaluate and treat patients with language problems, including those who have trouble understanding and using spoken or written language. Vocabulary, grammar, sentence structure, reading comprehension, and writing proficiency difficulties could be involved.
• SLPs assess and treat patients with swallowing difficulties, also referred to as dysphagia. They assist patients who, as a result of neurological disorders, strokes, or other medical issues, have trouble securely chewing or swallowing food or liquids.
• SLPs provide assistance to people with cognitive-communication impairments brought on by stroke, dementia, traumatic brain injury, or other neurological illnesses. They address deficiencies in cognitive abilities that affect communication, such as attention, memory, problem-solving, organizing, and others.
• AAC: SLPs work with people who have significant speech or language difficulties and who are unable to communicate verbally in the traditional sense. They might support the use of AAC methods like visual communication boards, sign language, or hi-tech devices with synthetic speech.

SLPs employ a range of assessment instruments, treatment strategies, and interventions that are catered to the unique requirements of each person. To deliver complete care, they work together with other experts like doctors, occupational therapists, and psychiatrists.

In order for people to properly speak and take part in their personal, academic, and professional lives, speech-language pathology plays a critical role in helping them overcome communication and swallowing issues.