Musculoskeletal patterns in patients with voice disorders

Area of Science:

• Otolaryngology
• Physiotherapy
• Voice Science

Background:

• Voice disorders often involve musculoskeletal abnormalities.
• Collaboration between ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialists and physiotherapists is crucial for comprehensive patient care.
• Understanding musculoskeletal patterns associated with voice problems can inform treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To correlate findings from ear, nose, and throat (ENT) assessments with physiotherapy evaluations in patients experiencing voice problems.
• To identify common patterns of musculoskeletal abnormalities in individuals with voice disorders.
• To assess the utility of physiotherapy in managing voice-related musculoskeletal issues.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of 26 patients with voice problems and identified musculoskeletal issues.
• Correlation of ENT surgeon's findings with physiotherapist's musculoskeletal assessments.
• Identification and documentation of specific musculoskeletal abnormalities.

Main Results:

• All referred patients exhibited musculoskeletal abnormalities upon physiotherapy assessment.
• An excellent correlation was observed between ENT and physiotherapy findings in performing artists.
• A fair-to-good correlation was noted among other professional voice users.
• Frequently observed musculoskeletal patterns included a high-held larynx, contracted stylohyoid and sternocleidomastoid muscles, and a weak deep flexor mechanism.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapy input is valuable in evaluating and managing voice problems stemming from musculoskeletal dysfunction.
• Specific musculoskeletal patterns are frequently associated with voice disorders.
• Multidisciplinary management, including physiotherapy, appears beneficial for improving voice-related symptoms.