Name:Julia Bissessar

School/Affiliation:University of Toronto/Hamilton Music Therapy

Co-Authors:Kathrin Mertel, M.A and Corene Hurt-Thaut, Ph.D

Virtual or In-person:In-person

Abstract:

Parkinson’s Disease (PD) affects motor control, including speech, with nearly 89% of individuals developing hypokinetic dysarthria, characterized by reduced volume, strain, and intelligibility. This case study explores the effects of Neurologic Music Therapy® (NMT) techniques—Rhythmic Speech Cueing® (RSC) and Vocal Intonation Therapy® (VIT)—on speech intelligibility in an adult male with PD. The participant completed 20 NMT sessions over two periods (9 and 11 weeks), separated by a 4-week break. Each session included telehealth and in-person components, with recordings provided for home practice.
Assessments pre- and post-intervention evaluated intelligibility, articulation, facial muscle mobility, voice quality, and maximum phonation time. Results indicated significant gains in speech clarity, articulation, and facial muscle mobility, as rated by the Sunnybrook Facial Grading System. Although speech rate slightly decreased, intelligibility ratings improved based on blinded evaluations. No significant changes were observed in maximum phonation time. The participant also reported reduced facial tension, supporting a more natural range of motion during speech.
This study suggests that RSC® and VIT® may enhance speech rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with PD, improving functional communication and potentially reducing muscle tension. Further research is recommended to expand on these findings and investigate the efficacy of NMT® interventions in other neurodegenerative conditions. This case highlights the promising role of NMT® in managing PD-related speech impairments, ultimately aiming to enhance quality of life through improved communicative ability.