Voice disorders, which may affect as much as 10% of the population, range from mild hoarseness, changes in pitch, low volume and/or breathiness, to aphonia, the complete loss of voice. Both children and adults can suffer from a variety of voice disorders due to medical, physical or psychological factors, as well as vocal abuse. Both children and adults can suffer from a variety of voice disorders due to vocal misuse, or medical, physical or psychological factors.
Some conditions that may cause a voicing problem include:
- Vocal nodules or polyps
- Surgery
- Vocal fold paresis or paralysis
- Stroke
- Cancer
- Trauma
- Diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and ALS
- Huntington’s Chorea and Multiple Sclerosis
To achieve improved voice production, we implement proven therapeutic exercises, enhance vocal hygiene and teach compensatory strategies. When treating medically based voice disorders, such as vocal polyps, nodules or vocal fold paralysis, we collaborate with medical professionals to develop treatment plans that will optimize outcomes.
Speech Matters incorporates both direct and indirect treatment approaches to improve phonation, respiration and musculoskeletal function. We also address the physical, psychological and behavioral components which impact the voice.
