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EMG biofeedback treatment of pediatric hyperfunctional dysphonia
K D Allen1, B Bernstein, D H Chait
1Meyer Rehabilitation Institute, University of Nebraska Medical Center.
Summary
Visual EMG biofeedback effectively reduced laryngeal muscle tension in a child with hyperfunctional dysphonia and vocal nodules. This voice therapy led to improved vocal function and eliminated nodules without surgery.
Area of Science:
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Voice Science
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Hyperfunctional dysphonia and vocal nodules can impair communication.
- Traditional voice therapy may not be effective for all cases.
- Laryngeal muscle tension is a key factor in these conditions.
Observation:
- A 9-year-old boy with persistent vocal issues was treated with visual electromyography (EMG) biofeedback.
- The therapy focused on reducing laryngeal muscle tension.
- A multiple baseline design with changing criteria was employed.
Findings:
- Sequential reductions in laryngeal muscle tension were observed with the biofeedback intervention.
- Improvements in laryngeal aerodynamic function and voice quality were noted.
- Vocal nodules resolved without surgical intervention, with effects maintained at 6-month follow-up.
Implications:
- Visual EMG biofeedback offers a promising alternative for treating pediatric voice disorders.
- This method can lead to significant functional voice improvements and nodule resolution.
- Non-invasive voice therapy approaches can be highly effective.