Pilot study of neurotransmission cognitive therapy using ultra-low-frequency vibration waves in children with cerebral palsy–associated spastic dysarthria

Background Neurotransmission Cognitive Therapy (NCT) proposes that targeted low-frequency mechanical vibration may modulate sensorimotor pathways involved in speech motor control. However, clinical evidence in pediatric neurodevelopmental speech disorders remains limited.Objective This pilot study evaluated the feasibility, safety, and preliminary effects of NCT in children with cerebral palsy (CP) presenting with spastic dysarthria.Methods A prospective single-arm pre–post pilot design was conducted involving 12 children (mean age 6.2 ± 1.3 years). The intervention consisted of targeted low-frequency vibration therapy delivered over a six-month period with an initial intensive phase followed by reduced-frequency sessions. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and post-intervention using the Dysarthria Profile and the Urdu Articulation and Phonology Assessment Test (TAAPU). Caregiver-reported outcomes were collected using a structured questionnaire, and safety was monitored throughout the study period.Results Improvements were observed in speech motor function and phonological performance following the intervention period. The total Dysarthria Profile score increased from 51.87 to 63.87 (p = .005). TAAPU analyses indicated reductions in selected phonological error patterns, with statistically significant changes in most comparisons (p < .05). Caregiver reports suggested perceived improvements in speech intelligibility and communicative participation. No serious adverse events were reported.Conclusion NCT was feasible and well tolerated in this pilot cohort. Although improvements in speech-related measures were observed, the single-arm design limits causal inference. These findings provide preliminary evidence supporting further investigation through larger, controlled clinical trials to evaluate efficacy and underlying mechanisms.