Articulatory description and treatment of “lateral /s/” using electropalatography: a case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Cases of so‐called “lateral /s/” articulation are frequently encountered in the clinic but are difficult to treat using conventional therapy. In this study, the technique of electropalatography (EPG) is used on a 12 year old with a lateral /s/ as a therapeutic tool providing a real‐time visual feedback display of tongue contacts with the palate during speech. EPG provided detailed articulatory information, unavailable from an auditory‐based analysis, which could be incorporated into the therapy programme. A normal /s/ pattern was achieved in connected speech after only four clinical sessions, and was maintained when reassessed after six months.