Voice Disorders
Voice disorders involve problems with pitch, volume, tone, or quality of voice. They can result from vocal strain, neurological issues, or medical conditions, affecting communication and vocal health.
Voice disorders encompass a range of conditions where an individual’s voice quality, pitch, and volume deviate from what is considered appropriate for their age, gender, cultural background, or geographic location. Even when these deviations may not be readily apparent to others, a voice disorder is recognized when an individual expresses distress over having an unusual voice that doesn’t meet their daily communication needs. In this context, we’ll delve into the various categories of voice disorders, as follows:
- Organic Voice Disorders: These are physiological voice disorders resulting from changes in the respiratory, laryngeal, or vocal tract mechanisms. They may stem from structural issues such as alterations in vocal fold tissues (e.g., edema or vocal nodules) or structural laryngeal changes due to aging.
- Neurogenic Voice Disorders: These organic voice disorders originate from problems with the central or peripheral nervous system innervation to the larynx, impacting vocal mechanism function. Conditions in this category include vocal tremor, spasmodic dysphonia, or vocal fold paralysis.
- Functional Voice Disorders: These voice disorders occur due to inefficient use of the vocal mechanism when the physical structure remains normal. They encompass conditions like vocal fatigue, muscle tension dysphonia or aphonia, diplophonia, or ventricular phonation.
- Psychogenic Voice Disorders: Occasionally, psychological stressors can lead to habitual and maladaptive aphonia or dysphonia, affecting voice quality. These are referred to as psychogenic voice disorders or psychogenic conversion aphonia/dysphonia. While relatively rare, individuals showing signs of psychogenic voice disorders may be referred by speech-language pathologists (SLPs) to other appropriate professionals like psychologists or psychiatrists for diagnosis and potential collaboration in subsequent behavioral treatment.
Our Approach to Voice Disorders
At Santosh Clinic of Speech and Hearing, our voice therapy begins with a detailed voice assessment using both perceptual and instrumental evaluations. Based on the diagnosis, we create customized voice therapy plans that include vocal hygiene education, breathing exercises, resonance training, and relaxation techniques. Our sessions help restore vocal function, reduce strain, and improve voice quality, enabling patients to speak comfortably and confidently in daily life.
Why Choose Us
We provide expert-led voice therapy focused on restoring natural, healthy vocal use.
Advanced Voice Evaluation
Detailed analysis using clinical and acoustic tools.
Holistic Voice Techniques
Balance of therapy, exercises, and vocal hygiene advice.
Support for All Ages
Therapy tailored for children, adults, and professionals.
