OROFACIAL SOMATOSENSATION IN PEOPLE WITH PARKINSON'S DISEASE

open_access
Open Access
Author:
Soni, Vrenda Rina
Area of Honors:
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Dr. Nicole Michele Etter, Thesis Supervisor
Dr. Carol Anne Miller, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
Communication Sciences and Disorders
Speech
Somatosensation
Orofacial
Parkinson's disease
Von Frey Hair monofilaments
Speech Language Pathology
Abstract:
Throughout every stage of life, communication remains a vital component to humans’ quality of life. However, problems in communication can occur which may require remediation services to improve communication skills. Typical speech-language therapy occurs using techniques that rely upon adequate somatosensory channels for feedback. This study aims to quantify changes in orofacial somatosensation in people with Parkinson’s disease. We hypothesize people with Parkinson’s disease may experience changes in orofacial somatosensation, impacting speech and swallowing, and leading to a decrease in overall quality of life. To assess this hypothesis, four adults (two males and two females) diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease participated in this study. Using Von Frey Hair monofilaments and two-point discrimination discs, participants’ orofacial somatosensory thresholds were tested in four regions, the right and left portion of their bottom lip and the right and left portion of their lateral tongue tip. Participants demonstrated increased threshold estimates (worse sensation) than previously published data for healthy, young controls. This study adds valuable information for future researchers regarding the impact of Parkinson’s disease on orofacial somatosensation. Additional research in this area could allow speech pathologists to tailor services for individuals with Parkinson’s disease by assessing orofacial somatosensation and adjusting therapy stimuli based on the client’s somatosensory profile.