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.
Lateral Lisp and Obesity?
By Pam Marshalla
Q: My daughter has a lateral lisp and obesity. The SLP cannot seem to get her to make the correct sounds. Can obesity interfere with learning these sounds?
I have never faced this situation with any client. However, from what I know about tongue function and the lisps, I do not see how obesity might interfere with learning correct tongue position for S, Z, Sh, Zh, Ch, or J.
Perhaps your SLP does not know how to fix a lateral lisp. This is very common today. You may have to seek additional help from another SLP.