Speech-language pathologists assist people with speech, language, and swallowing disorders.

Where do these problems originate?

Some problems of this kind may result from disorders of areas of the brain involved in language comprehension, word finding, and the mental formulation of speech. Sometimes speech expression is hampered by motor disorders that do not affect language skills, but instead impair the coordinated movements required for speech. These motor speech disorders can result from abnormalities of the brain, the spinal cord, other nerves, or the muscles of the mouth and throat.

Topic Editor: Steven C. Schachter, M.D.
Last Reviewed:12/15/06