Up to 90% of patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) have hypokinetic dysarthria (HD) in the early phase of the illness. HD is characterized by a harsh breathy voice quality, reduced variability of pitch and loudness and imprecise articulation. This project investigates the novel combination of speech therapy and home-based non-invasive brain stimulation (tDCS) treatment in order to increase overall positive effects on HD in PD. Using a novel multimodal analysis approach based on fMRI and acoustic signal processing, we will be able to monitor changes in different domains of speech, as well as associated changes in brain plasticity.

Sustainable Development Goals

Masaryk University is committed to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to improve the conditions and quality of life on our planet by 2030.