Speech Therapy with Biofeedback for Speech Sound Disorder
(C-RESULTS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests methods to improve speech accuracy in children who struggle with pronouncing the /r/ sound, a common issue known as residual speech errors (RSE). Researchers compare traditional speech therapy to therapy enhanced with biofeedback technology, which uses visual or ultrasound feedback to guide speech correction. The goal is to determine if biofeedback is more effective than traditional methods and which type of biofeedback works best for different children. Children who primarily speak English and have noticeable difficulty with the /r/ sound might be suitable candidates for this study. As a Phase 2 trial, this research measures the treatment's effectiveness in an initial, smaller group, offering a chance to benefit from innovative therapy methods.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether participants need to stop taking their current medications. It is best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research shows that both biofeedback methods—visual-acoustic and ultrasound—are generally safe for treating speech sound disorders. Studies indicate that visual-acoustic biofeedback is non-invasive and safe for addressing speech errors, with no significant side effects reported.
Similarly, ultrasound biofeedback is considered safe. A study with 62 participants who had speech sound disorders showed no major negative effects, suggesting it is well-tolerated by those with ongoing speech issues.
Both treatments continue to be studied to fully confirm their effectiveness and safety, but current findings are promising. These methods aim to improve speech accuracy in children with speech sound disorders without causing harm.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial's treatments?
Researchers are excited about these treatments for Speech Sound Disorder because they offer innovative ways to improve speech through biofeedback. Unlike traditional articulation therapy, which relies on auditory and visual cues, biofeedback-ultrasound allows individuals to actually see their tongue movements during speech, offering a direct visual guide to correct pronunciation. Biofeedback--visual-acoustic, on the other hand, combines visual and auditory feedback to help individuals better understand and adjust their speech sounds. These methods provide a more interactive and engaging approach, potentially leading to quicker and more effective results for those struggling with speech sound disorders.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for speech sound disorder?
Research has shown that biofeedback in speech therapy can greatly improve speech clarity for individuals with ongoing speech errors. This trial will compare different biofeedback methods with traditional articulation treatment. Participants in one arm will receive ultrasound biofeedback, which allows patients to see their tongue movements, potentially correcting mispronounced sounds. Specifically, one study found that adding ultrasound to therapy led to significant improvements in speech for those with persistent errors. Another arm will involve visual-acoustic biofeedback, providing real-time feedback of speech sounds, which also enhances treatment success. Research suggests these biofeedback methods can be more effective than traditional treatments, which will be tested in a separate arm, offering hope for those who haven't benefited from standard approaches.678910
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for children aged 9 to almost 16 who speak English as their main language, have a specific speech sound disorder with the /r/ sound, and can pass hearing and oral exams. They shouldn't have severe voice or fluency disorders, significant learning disabilities, major neurological conditions, or score too low on certain intelligence and language tests.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either traditional articulation treatment or biofeedback-enhanced treatment for speech sound disorder
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Biofeedback-ultrasound
- Biofeedback--visual-acoustic
- Traditional articulation treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
New York University
Lead Sponsor
Syracuse University
Collaborator
Montclair State University
Collaborator
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Collaborator