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Karlijn Beckers

  • Role: PhD Candidate

My PhD research investigates the effects of speech and language therapy (SLT) in children with neuromuscular disorders (NMD). Swallowing and speech problems are common and progressive in nature in children with NMD, which can lead to reduced participation in society. Children with NMD often receive SLT, primarily focusing on compensation strategies, such as avoiding certain foods or speaking more slowly. Additionally, there are options for muscle and function training, but little is known about the effectiveness of these treatments. This study investigates whether intensive SLT, focusing on articulation and training of the muscles in the oropharyngeal area, can stabilize or reduce swallowing and speech problems in children with NMD. Specifically, we will include 50 children: 25 children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and 25 children with myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1). A unique aspect of this study is that, in addition to assessing the impact of SLT on symptoms, ultrasound imaging of the orofacial muscles is used to determine the effects of the training on muscle quality. In addition, the qualitative component of the study examines how children, their parents/caregivers, and therapists experienced the therapy and how this could be improved.

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