Logopedic massage as a means of correcting dysarthria in younger school-age children with neurological pathology

Abstract

Abstract. The article substantiates the importance of studying logopedic massage as one of the main methods for correcting dysarthria in younger school-age children with neurological pathology. In light of the deteriorating demographic situation and the increasing number of children with perinatal CNS lesions, the issue of speech therapy assistance has become particularly relevant. The article emphasizes the high prevalence of dysarthria, especially among younger school-age children with cerebral palsy, as confirmed by contemporary scientific research. The problem of providing corrective speech therapy to younger school-age children with neurological disorders is extremely pressing. The need for timely diagnosis and correction of speech disorders is linked to the alarming demographic situation in the country, characterized not only by a general decline in birth rates but also by an increase in the number of children with physiological immaturity and developmental pathologies. Speech therapy for dysarthria is complex and multifaceted and requires systematic, specialized work. Effective correction necessitates a comprehensive medical-pedagogical approach, one of the tools of which is logopedic massage. The purpose of logopedic massage is not only to strengthen or relax the articulatory muscles but also to stimulate proprioceptive sensations that enhance the clarity of kinesthetic perception. Speech kinesthetics play a significant role in the formation of both speech perception (receptive language) and production (expressive language), as kinesthetic sensations accompany the work of all muscles. Within the overall system of corrective measures, logopedic massage precedes articulation, breathing, and voice exercises. The use of logopedic massage in speech therapy practice for younger school-age children with dysarthria contributes to the normalization of muscle tone in the articulatory organs and the improvement of their motor functions, which positively affects the development of correct pronunciation.