It is widely acknowledged and documented that in the Western world, individuals with cleft lip/palate often experience social and emotional isolation or difficulties as a result of their facial anomalies. It may be possible that the traditionally Western preoccupation with looks and external ‘beauty’ contributes towards this.
A number of treatment options are available to individuals with cleft lip/palate, depending on the nature and severity of their condition. An interdisciplinary approach to intervention is usually of most benefit, incorporating a team consisting of, but not limited to: "paediatric dentists, plastic surgeons, geneticists, speech and languagetherapists, otolaryngologists, orthodontists and audiologists." Treatment will typically begin from a very young age and will continue into childhood, adolescence and even adulthood if appropriate.
If you think that a family member may benefit from speech and language therapy, I.T.S could be of help. Contact us here: http://www.integratedtreatments.co.uk/contact-us/enquiry
Sarah Bennington, December 2011
Written on behalf of Integrated Treatment Services. I.T.S is a private Speech and Language Therapy service based in Leicestershire and the East Midlands. It specialises in providing highly-skilled Speech and Language Therapists, but also associates with other therapeutic professionals, including Occupational Therapists, Physiotherapists, Psychologists and Creative Expressive Therapists.
