PD COMM

A study to evaluate the effectiveness of two types of speech and language therapy for people with Parkinson's who have problems with their voice or speech.

Condition(s)

  • Parkinson’s & movement disorders

Project type

  • Understanding the condition

About the project

Many people with Parkinson's report problems with their voice or speech but there is little evidence as to what is a clinical and cost effective therapy to help people.

In this study participants were randomised to the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT), standard NHS speech and language therapy, or no therapy for at least 12 months. LSVT is an intensive programme of voice exercises for people with Parkinson's. 

The study is assessing if any of the therapies are maximising the speech intelligibility and communication of those taking part, and improving their quality of life.

Participants were assessed when they joined the trial and then by post at 3, 6 and 12 months. 

More information is available from the PD COMM website

This study is led by the University of Birmingham.

 

Funder(s)

National Institute of Health Research - Health Technology Assessment Programme

Publication(s)

The PD COMM trial: a protocol for the process evaluation of a randomised trial assessing the effectiveness of two types of SLT for people with Parkinson’s disease
Masterson-Algar, P., Burton, C.R., Brady, M.C. et al.
2017 Aug 29 in
Trials Journal

Status

Completed

Contact

Dr Gordon Duncan
gordonduncan@nhs.net

Eligibility criteria

A confirmed diagnosis of Parkinson's Disease with voice or speech problems. 

 

Image Credit: MircoStockHub/Gettyimages

×