Using simplified ultrasound feedback to help children improve their speech
Simplified Ultrasound Feedback for Speech Remediation
This study is testing a fun game that uses ultrasound to help children with speech sound disorders learn to say the 'r' sound better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 17 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Cincinnati Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cincinnati, Ohio) |
| Trial ID | NCT06366256 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of simplified ultrasound biofeedback for children with speech sound disorders, specifically focusing on the production of the 'r' sound. By utilizing a motivational game that provides feedback based on the success of tongue movements, the study seeks to enhance learning through external attentional focus. The research will develop a reliable system to track tongue movements and identify effective combinations for producing the desired sound. The goal is to make speech therapy more accessible and effective for children who struggle with these specific speech challenges.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7 to 17 who have difficulty producing the 'r' sound and score less than 20% accuracy on a speech probe.
Not a fit: Patients who do not pass a hearing screening will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve speech outcomes for children with speech sound disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While traditional ultrasound biofeedback has shown promise, this simplified approach is novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Difficulty producing "r" (American English rhotic, ex. first sound in "ray" or last sound in "or"), scoring less than 20% accuracy on 70 word probe * Speaks American English fluently * Between ages of 7 and 17 years old Exclusion Criteria: * Does not pass hearing screening
Where this trial is running
Cincinnati, Ohio
- University of Cincinnati — Cincinnati, Ohio, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Suzanne E Boyce, PhD — University of Cincinnati
- Study coordinator: Suzanne Boyce, PhD
- Email: boycese@ucmail.uc.ed-
- Phone: 513-558-8509
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.