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Published on: December 13, 2017
Development of a speech treatment program for a client with essential vocal tremor
Julie Barkmeier-Kraemer1, Andrea Lato, Kay Wiley
1Department of Speech, Language, and Hearing Sciences, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ 85721, USA. jbark@u.arizona.edu
Seminars in Speech and Language
|April 15, 2011
Summary
Vocal tremor, often linked to neurological conditions, may improve with speech therapy. This case study shows behavioral intervention can be a beneficial alternative to treatments like Botox for essential vocal tremor.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Speech-Language Pathology
Background:
- Vocal tremor involves involuntary pitch and loudness modulations, often seen in neurogenic disorders.
- Pharmaceuticals are generally ineffective, and botulinum toxin (Botox) has potential side effects.
- Essential vocal tremor is a common type affecting voice quality.
Observation:
- This case study focuses on an individual with essential vocal tremor.
- Speech evaluation methods were used to characterize vocal tremor patterns.
- Behavioral intervention was developed based on these characterizations.
Findings:
- Speech therapy was successfully applied to manage essential vocal tremor.
- The case demonstrates the effectiveness of behavioral intervention for vocal tremor.
- Characterizing tremor patterns informed the treatment approach.
Implications:
- Speech treatment can be a viable alternative for individuals with vocal tremor.
- Behavioral interventions may offer a safer option compared to pharmacological or toxin-based treatments.
- Further consideration of speech therapy for vocal tremor management is warranted.
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