Voice Disorders: Medical, Surgical, Behavioral Treatment

Voice disorders affect 9-12% of the adult population resulting in lost work time, reduced social interaction, and feelings of incompetence due to problems in communication. Treatment begins with a comprehensive history of the problem followed by a thorough evaluation by experts who special in voice disorders using state of the art equipment. Normal voice is produced when the vocal folds vibrate without disruption. Growths such as vocal nodules, vocal polyps, or vocal fold cysts disrupt the opening and closing pattern of the vocal folds. Weakness of the voice resulting in vocal fatigue, breathy voice quality or the need to push the voice may be due to muscle weakness or paralysis.

Although surgical treatments are available, most voice disorders are treated without surgery. Patients may elect medical therapy to treat laryngeal reflux, a common cause of hoarseness and vocal fatigue. Voice therapy is a behavioral treatment to correct faulty voice use techniques that develop from overuse, misuse, or strain.

The voice care team has a wealth of experience in the management of voice disorders in singers, teachers, corporate executives, stockbrokers, and others who use their voice extensively in their work. The voice care team is available seven days a week to manage the acute needs of singers and performers.

In addition to voice therapy, special speech services are available for those individuals who require accent reduction, those with speech disorders such as lisping, and for individuals who desire a well-articulated and commanding voice. The importance of a clear, commanding voice cannot be overestimated whether in the boardroom, classroom, living-room, or on stage in front of a packed house