Speech Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis: More Than Just Words
Speech Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis: More Than Just Words
Many people associate multiple sclerosis (MS) with weakness, fatigue, or mobility issues. However, MS can also impact the muscles involved in speech and swallowing. Just as physical therapy promotes better movement, speech therapy helps strengthen communication and ensure safe swallowing. At Therapy Achievements, our goal is to help you address these often-overlooked symptoms and maintain independence.
How MS Affects Speech and Swallowing
According to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 25% to 40% of people with MS experience some difficulty with speech or swallowing. These problems occur when MS damages the nerves that control the muscles responsible for these vital functions—especially during relapses or times of severe fatigue.
Common speech and voice changes may include:
- Slurred or unclear speech
- Trouble controlling loudness or volume
- Hoarse, breathy, or nasal-sounding voice
- Slow or effortful speech
Common swallowing difficulties may include:
- Coughing or choking while eating or drinking
- Feeling like food is “sticking” in the throat
- Taking longer or needing more effort to eat
- Increased risk of dehydration, malnutrition, or aspiration pneumonia
How Speech Therapy Helps People with MS
Speech therapy for MS is tailored to each individual, focusing on strengthening, coordinating, and controlling the muscles of the mouth, throat, and voice box. Therapy can help you regain confidence in speaking clearly and eating safely. Our therapists use a range of evidence-based techniques, including:
- Oral motor exercises to strengthen the lips, tongue, cheeks, and throat
- Voice and breath control training to improve articulation, pacing, and volume
- Compensatory strategies such as diet modifications or adjusted posture while eating
- Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (e.g., VitalStim®) to support safe swallowing
- Assistive communication devices, including alphabet boards, amplifiers, or speech-generating technology
Advanced MS Speech Therapy at Therapy Achievements
At Therapy Achievements, our speech therapists are specially trained in programs like LSVT LOUD® Voice Program and VitalStim® Swallowing Therapy—both proven to improve communication and swallowing for individuals with neurological conditions like MS.
With two convenient clinic locations in Huntsville and Decatur, Alabama, we provide a comprehensive, team-based approach to care. In addition to speech therapy, our center offers physical therapy and occupational therapy under one roof. This integrated model allows us to address the full spectrum of MS-related challenges, including balance and mobility, fatigue management, pain control, and visual retraining.
Regain Confidence, Comfort, and Control
If MS is affecting your ability to speak or swallow, you don’t have to face the frustration—or the risks—alone. Speech therapy can help you communicate more clearly, eat more safely, and enjoy a better quality of life. Most insurance plans cover speech therapy, and Therapy Achievements is an in-network provider for many major insurers.
Take the first step toward improved communication and safe swallowing—call us today at 256-509-4398 to schedule your evaluation.