Comparing Two Voice Therapy Methods to Improve Communication in Adults with Muscle Tension Dysphonia or Vocal Fold Lesions

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating different methods of voice therapy to improve speech outcomes over 12 months in people with voice problems, specifically those diagnosed with primary muscle tension dysphonia MTD or benign vocal fold lesions. The study also explores how clear speech relates to vocal characteristics and patient-reported outcomes, as well as the connection between overall voice improvement and the use of clear speech. The study compares two approaches to voice therapy a traditional hierarchical method and a new non-hierarchical Conversation Training Therapy CTT. The hierarchical method involves four weekly sessions starting with simple sounds and progressing to full conversations, requiring mastery of each step before moving on. The non-hierarchical method also has four weekly sessions but introduces techniques like clear speech, awareness training, and embedded gestures in a flexible order, supported by daily practice using a mobile app. Participants will attend therapy sessions and follow-up visits over a year, during which voice outcomes are measured through questionnaires, acoustic tests, and laryngeal imaging at multiple time points. Researchers will track changes in voice handicap scores, vowel sounds, voice severity, vocal fold function, airflow, and adherence to therapy. The study aims to understand how these therapy methods affect voice quality and communication over time.

Deconstructing Voice Therapy: Towards Enhanced Communication Outcomes