Testing a rhythm-based intervention for dysarthria: Evidence from two case studies

Dysarthria is characterized by disruptions in motor control necessary for producing speech and other verbal sounds. These motor impairments often extend to reading, impacting both speed and accuracy due to the articulatory challenges inherent in speech production. Most dysarthria treatments traditionally focus on improving oral production. However, a novel approach involves targeting anticipatory processes through rhythmic stimulation combined with verbal fluency exercises. In this study, a remote intervention was delivered via an online platform, incorporating rhythm-based reading exercises for two patients (A and B) diagnosed with dysarthria. Following a two-week period of daily intervention, patients were assessed on reading and language fluency. Both patients showed considerable improvements in reading skills. Additionally, Patient B exhibited improvements in functions commonly impaired in dysarthria, including respiratory and articulatory abilities. In conclusion, this remote rhythm-based intervention resulted in notable enhancements in reading and language parameters in dysarthria. These preliminary findings suggest that this approach holds promise and warrants further investigation in future studies on dysarthria.