This advice-column-style blog for SLPs was authored by Pam Marshalla from 2006 to 2015, the archives of which can be explored here. Use the extensive keywords list found in the right-hand column (on mobile: at the bottom of the page) to browse specific topics, or use the search feature to locate specific words or phrases throughout the entire blog.
Treating a Unilateral Lisp
By Pam Marshalla
Q: I recently started working with a student with a right side unilateral lisp caused by jaw and tongue instability. He also has a midline bulge. Right now we are working on maintaining a stable jaw. Do I focus on tongue position as well?
It sounds like he is shifting both his jaw and his tongue to one side. If so, stabilize the jaw first and use a straw to analyze what is going on with the airstream with the jaw in place. Sometimes the jaw re-adjustment alone takes care of it, sometimes you have to work on the tongue too. In fact, if his tongue is bulging upward in the middle section, then I am almost certain you will have to do the tongue too. Use the straw to teach him midline airstream off of T.