New Research May Aid Cerebral Palsy Patients To Speak

A new California college study is using motion capture technology to study how those with cerebral palsy communicate — and possibly assist them to speak more effectively.

According to an article in college paper The Daily Aztec, researchers at the San Diego State School of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences are spearheading the new research. The information gathered from the study may help researchers develop a possible new form of speech therapy and intervention for children with cerebral palsy. 

The researchers are using motion-capture technology to analyze the speech patterns of children, aged one to 18, who have cerebral palsy or are developing it. They will also study children who don't have cerebral palsy. Children participating in the study are asked to read and repeat words and phrases displayed on a projection. As a subject speaks, motion-capture cameras follow markers on their face, and the 3-D images are sent back to a computer for analysis.

“No one has looked at the speech movements of children with cerebral palsy using this type of technology,” according to Ignatius Nip, the professor leading the study. “We can use the information gathered to help speech-language pathologists understand how to help their clients communicate more effectively.”

The study is already providing some useful information for researchers. The team found that children with cerebral palsy moved their mouths more quickly than children without the condition. Nip believes that this happens because children with cerebral can’t precisely control their movements. This makes them use more movement when they talk – and so they need more time to speak.

Sometimes improper medical care or medical negligence causes cerebral palsy. If negligence resulted in your child’s cerebral palsy, learn about your legal options by contacting a birth injury attorney at Sokolove Law today.

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