voicetherapy

Voicetherapy is a clinical practice used to diagnose and treat disorders of voice through exercise, education, and behavioral modification aimed at improving vocal quality, efficiency, and health. It is typically delivered by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and may involve collaboration with otolaryngologists or singing voice specialists. Therapy can occur in clinics, schools, hospitals, or via telepractice.

Voicetherapy is indicated for a range of dysphonias, including nodules, polyps, edema, chronic throat irritation, muscle tension dysphonia, vocal fold paralysis, puberphonia, and voice issues in professional voice users such as teachers or singers. It is not a substitute for medical or surgical treatment when structural pathology is present, but it can reduce symptoms and improve function in many nonstructural conditions.

Typical components of voicetherapy include education about vocal health and safe voice use, breathing and posture adjustments, and a progression of voice exercises. Common techniques encompass easy onset phonation, resonant voice or flow phonation methods, semi-occluded vocal tract exercises, pitch and loudness management, and strategies for reducing vocal strain. Therapists often incorporate home practice, perceptual feedback, and gradual escalation of vocal demands.

Assessment in voicetherapy usually involves perceptual voice evaluation, acoustic and aerodynamic measures, and in some cases visualization of the vocal folds. Treatment plans are individualized and may be adjusted based on progress, patient goals, and coexisting medical conditions. Evidence supports voicetherapy as effective for many benign voice disorders, particularly when combined with ongoing practice and professional guidance.