Multiple sclerosis (MS) can affect more than just movement—it can also impact how clearly and confidently you communicate. This condition’s symptoms, like slurred speech, a shaky voice, or difficulty finding the right words, can get in the way of your daily life. The good news is that there are proven ways to manage these challenges.
At Rebound Physical Therapy, our speech-language pathologists (SLPs) work with adults with MS to strengthen their communication skills, improve their vocal control, and stay ahead of symptoms that can affect their speech. Keep reading to learn more about how this condition can affect your communication skills and how our expert speech therapists can get you back in action.
What Is Multiple Sclerosis?
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering (or myelin) of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. When that happens, it can interfere with communication between your brain and your body. This can lead to a variety of symptoms depending on the specific type and severity of the condition.
Common symptoms of MS include fatigue, muscle weakness, balance issues, numbness or tingling, vision problems, and cognitive changes. For some people, MS can also affect the muscles involved in speaking, breathing, and swallowing.
While there is currently no cure for MS, treatment from physical, occupational, and speech therapists can help you manage your symptoms to continue living your life as independently as possible.
How MS Can Affect Speech and Communication
If MS impacts the areas of the brain or nerves that control speech and language, you can experience communication challenges that make it difficult to participate fully in conversations, social events, or work. Some of these challenges include:
- Dysarthria – Slurred or slow speech caused by impaired coordination or weakness of the muscles used in speaking (the tongue, lips, soft palate, etc.)
- Dysphonia – Impaired breath or vocal chord control that can affect the sound of your voice (make it softer, hoarse, or shaky) or cause you to run out of breath when you try to speak
- Cognitive-communication issues – Trouble finding words, processing information, or organizing thoughts in conversation
How Speech Therapy Helps Adults with MS
Speech therapy for people with MS focuses on strengthening the muscles involved in speech and improving communication strategies. Our expert speech-language pathologists (SLPs) will assess your specific needs and create a tailored treatment plan to help you maintain or improve your communication skills.
Your treatment plan may include:
- Breath support exercises to improve voice projection and control
- Articulation training to enhance speech clarity
- Vocal exercises to strengthen and stabilize your voice
- Cognitive-communication strategies to support word-finding, memory, and organization
- Assistive communication tools (if needed) such as speech-generating devices or alternative communication systems
Speech therapy can be especially beneficial in the early stages of MS to help you maintain your communication skills and adapt to changes in your symptoms over time. Even in the later stages of MS, therapy can provide you with valuable tools to preserve your independence and improve your overall quality of life.
Reach Out to Rebound for Expert Speech Support
If MS is making communication more difficult, our speech therapists at Rebound Physical Therapy can help you take back control. Give us a call at (785) 367-3079 to schedule a speech therapy screening, and let’s work together to get you back in action today.
