What is the purpose of using surface electromyography in speech therapy?

The purpose of using surface electromyography (sEMG) in speech therapy is to provide feedback on muscle activity. This technology allows clinicians to measure the electrical activity of muscles involved in speech production, such as those in the lips, tongue, and larynx. By visualizing this muscle activity in real-time, both the therapist and the patient can gain insights into how well the muscles are functioning during speech. This feedback is valuable for targeting specific speech production issues, helping to improve articulation, control, and coordination of the muscles needed for effective communication.

Other options may touch on aspects of speech therapy, but they do not reflect the primary function of sEMG. Measuring voice pitch pertains to acoustic analysis rather than muscular activity, monitoring breathing patterns is related to respiratory function and might use different modalities, and assessing laryngeal function typically focuses on other diagnostic tools rather than muscle activity alone. Thus, the unique capability of sEMG to provide direct feedback about the neuromuscular components of speech makes it a critical tool for enhancing therapeutic outcomes in speech-language pathology.