Hypokinetic Dysarthria in Parkinson's Disease: Assessment and Treatment Practices Among Algerian Speech‐Language Therapists

Abstract

What is already known on this subject Existing studies from high-income countries highlight variability in assessment and treatment practices of hypokinetic dysarthria in PwPD among SLTs, with underutilization of standardized tools. However, no data existed on clinical practices in Africa and Arabic-speaking contexts, where linguistic and resource constraints may uniquely shape rehabilitation approaches. What this paper adds to the existing knowledge This study reveals that Algerian SLTs predominantly rely on informal assessments (63.8%) and non-evidence-based therapy (e.g., articulatory muscle strengthening, 77.7%), while evidence-based methods like LSVT are rarely used (8.3%). Systemic barriers, including inadequate training (83.3%), lack of dedicated tools (88.8%), and limited workplace resources (55.5%), may explain these disparities. This is the first study to document Arabic-language challenges in dysarthria management in PwPD, advocating for linguistically adapted tools. What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this study? These findings urge action to enhance SLTs training programmes in Algeria, by integrating evidence-based methods like LSVT into curricula and develop standardized Arabic-language assessment tools.