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Psychophysiologic treatment of vocal cord dysfunction
Jay Earles1, Burton Kerr, Michael Kellar
1Department of Psychology, Tripler Army Medical Center, Honolulu, Hawaii 96859, USA. jay.earles@haw.tamc.amedd.army.mil
Summary
Psychophysiologic self-regulation training effectively treated vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) in two military members, resolving symptoms and enabling return to physical training. This approach offers a promising non-pharmacological option for VCD management.
Area of Science:
- Investigative medicine
- Pulmonology
- Neurology
Background:
- Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) presents as an upper airway obstruction, often misdiagnosed as asthma.
- Currently, no definitive empirical treatment exists for VCD.
Observation:
- Two active-duty military members diagnosed with VCD via laryngoscopy were studied.
- Both individuals underwent psychophysiologic self-regulation training focused on reducing laryngeal muscle tension.
Findings:
- The treatment led to a significant positive response in both patients.
- Patients reported resolution of dyspnea (shortness of breath).
- Both individuals successfully resumed their military physical training regimens.
Implications:
- Psychophysiologic self-regulation, with or without speech therapy, demonstrates a positive impact on VCD symptoms.
- This non-pharmacological intervention shows potential as an effective treatment for VCD.
- Further research into self-regulation techniques for airway disorders is warranted.