The case for MS speech and language therapy
 The NICE Guidelines on MS state that the specialist neurological rehabilitation service should have a speech and language therapist as an integral member of its specialist team.NICE Management of multiple sclerosis in primary and secondary care November 2003 (1). |
Speech and language therapy is seen by the NSF as a 'key element of successful home care'. |
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People with MS can experience abnormality of swallowing, which should be assessed by a specialist speech and language therapist, who will be able to advise on swallowing techniques, and on adapting food consistencies and dietary intake. NICE Guidelines on MS. |
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Any person with MS who has dysarthria sufficient to affect
communication with people outside the home or over the
phone, and any person who is concerned about their speech
sound or clarity, should be assessed and given advice by a
specialist speech and language therapist NICE Guidelines on MS. |
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Any person with MS whose ability to communicate is
affected significantly by dysarthria should be taught techniques to improve and maintain speech production and
clarity; tuition should be provided by a specialist speech and
language therapist, working with any other members of the
neurological rehabilitation service who are involved. NICE Guidelines on MS. |
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Any person with MS who cannot communicate effectively
should be assessed by a specialist speech and language
therapist for an augmentative aid to communication, which
should then be provided as soon as possible. NICE Guidelines on MS. |
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The family members, carers and other frequent communicators with any person with MS who has significant communication difficulties should have discussions with the speech and language therapist on how best to help the person communicate. NICE Guidelines on MS. |
| Further information | |
| (1) NICE Management of multiple sclerosis in primary and secondary care, November 2003 |
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| (2) The National Service Framework for Long-term Conditions, 2005. Department of Health. |
Download here |
| View the MS Society's range of free publications | Download here |