By Ms Thrikshaa J, Speech Therapist, Chennai

Apraxia of speech is caused when there is a disruption in the child’s brain functioning to send appropriate signals to speech muscles. The brain struggles to plan and coordinate the movements which leads to motor speech disorder. This condition is purely not due to muscle weakness.

Causes

  • Developmental issues
  • Genetic factors
  • Premature birth
  • Environmental factors
  • Neurological conditions
  • Brain injury damage
  • Family history
  • Idiopathic

Symptoms

  • Fluctuation in pattern of speech errors
  • Difficulty sequencing sounds
  • Misplacement of oral structures
  • Speech imitation deficit
  • Unclear speech

How Do Speech Therapists Help?

They initiate with detailed assessment and provide diagnosis. Individualized treatment plans are designed to improve speech clarity, motor planning and coordination. Therapy focuses on enhancing the child’s speech ability through techniques and targeted exercises.