Programa Condicionamento Vocal e Respiratório (CVR II): nova proposta para profissionais da voz / Vocal and Respiratory Conditioning Program (CVR II): new proposal for voice professionals / Programa de Acondicionamiento Vocal y Respiratorio (CVR II): nueva propuesta para profesionales de la voz

Proposta recente de apresentação de Programa de Condicionamento Vocal e Respiratório (CVR I) incentivou a continuidade (CVR II), considerando novas estratégias de treinamento muscular vocal e respiratório que pudessem contribuir para melhor desempenho de profissionais da voz. Para a condução da ação, mais uma vez, houve a participação integrada de fonoaudiólogos e fisioterapeutas e, no papel de participantes, profissionais da voz. Planejada para dez encontros, em que dois deles (início e fim) foram destinados à coleta de dados, a proposta teve como objetivo aumentar ainda mais a resistência vocal e respiratória dos participantes, promovendo melhor rendimento profissional. Exercícios de trato vocal semiocluído e respiratórios foram realizados com o uso dos incentivadores denominados New Shaker® e Respiron Athletic 2®. Trata-se de mais uma experiência relatada na direção de convocar outros profissionais a colocarem em prática ações para o condicionamento vocal e respiratório de profissionais da voz. O uso de incentivadores respiratórios e a parceria com a Fisioterapia são apresentados e recomendados para melhor entendimento e consequente atendimento das questões da voz e da respiração. (AU)

This is a continuation (VRC II) of a recent proposal to present a Vocal and Respiratory Conditioning (VRC I) Program using new vocal and respiratory muscle training strategies aimed at contributing to a better performance of voice professionals. Once again, the initiative included the integrated participation of speech-language pathologists and physiotherapists, as well as voice professionals as participants. Ten meetings were planned in the initial proposal, with the first and last meeting focused on data collection, the proposal aimed to further increase the vocal and respiratory resistance of the participants, promoting better professional performance. Semi-occluded vocal tract and respiratory exercises were performed with using the New Shaker® and Respiron Athletic 2® boosters. This is an experience reported in order to encourage other professionals to put into practice actions for vocal and respiratory conditioning. The use of respiratory boosters and the partnership with Physiotherapy are recommended, aiming at a better understanding and consequent care of voice and breathing issues in voice professionals. (AU)

Una propuesta reciente de presentar un Programa de Acondicionamiento Vocal y Respiratório (CVR I) fomentó la continuidad (CVR II), considerando nuevas estratégias para el entrenamiento de los músculos vocales y respiratórios que podrían contribuir a un major desempeño de los profesionales de la voz. Para conducir la acción, una vez más, se contó con la participación integrada de fonoaudiológos y kinesiológos, y en el papel de participantes, profesionales de la voz. Planificada para diez encuentros, en los que dos de ellos (inicio y final) están destinados a la recolección de datos, la propuesta tiene como objetivo aumentar aún más la resistência vocal y respiratoria de los participantes, promoviendo un mejor desempeño profesional. Se realizaron ejercicios de tracto vocal y respiratorio semiocluidos con el uso de incentivos denominados New Shaker® y Respiron Athletic 2®. Esta es una experiencia más reportada en la dirección de invitar a otros profesionales a poner en práctica acciones para el acondicionamiento vocal y respiratório de los profesionales de la voz. Se presenta y recomienda el uso de soportes respiratórios y la asociación con Kinesiología para una mejor comprensión y consecuente atención de problemas de voz y respiración. (AU)

Effect of Combined Respiratory Muscle Training (cRMT) on Dysphonia following Single CVA: A Retrospective Pilot Study.

BACKGROUND: Although dysphonia is less prevalent than dysphagia following cerebrovascular accidents, dysphonia does contribute to the burden of disease resulting from stroke. Strengthening muscles of the larynx and respiratory tract through respiratory muscle training (RMT) has proven effective in improving voice after neurological insult. However, approaches to strengthen only the expiratory muscle groups (EMST) dominate the clinical study literature, with variable outcomes. By focusing on exhalation, the contribution of inspiratory muscles to phonation may have been overlooked. This study investigated the effect of combined respiratory muscle training (cRMT) to improve voice function in stroke patients. METHODS: Recorded data of twenty patients with dysphonia following stroke were allocated to an intervention (IG) or a control group (CG) based upon whether they chose cRMT or not while awaiting pro bono voice therapy services. The intervention group (n = 10) was treated daily with three 5-minute sessions of combined resistive respiratory muscle training for 28 days, while the control group (n = 10) received no cRMT or other exercise intervention. Perceptual and acoustic measurements as well as a pulmonary function test were assessed pre-and post-intervention. RESULTS: The intervention group demonstrated significant improvements after 28 days of cRMT in peak flow (127%), patient self-perception of voice improvement (84.41%), as well as in all categories of the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice (CAPE-V): overall severity (63.22%), roughness (54.76%), breathiness (61.06%), strain (63.43%), pitch range (48.11%) and loudness (57.51%), compared to the control group who did not receive treatment. Furthermore, cRMT also led to significant improvements in maximum phonation time (212.5%), acoustic parameters of vocal intensity, and total semitone range (165.45%). CONCLUSIONS: This pilot study shows promise of the feasibility and effectiveness of cRMT to lessen the signs and symptoms of dysphonia while simultaneously improving breath support.

Complementary and Integrative Medicine and the Voice.

Dysphonia is a ubiquitous problem impacting a broad range of people. As communication is central to the human experience, any perturbation of the voice can be frustrating for the patient and the physician. Nutritional, psychological, and physical means of preventing and treating hoarseness have been used by humans since the beginning of written record. Today, we use a selection of these approaches, along with traditional medicine, to alleviate problems of the vocal tract.

Reducing the gap between science and clinic: lessons from academia and professional practice - part B: traditional vocal therapy techniques and modern electrostimulation and photobiomodulation techniques applied to vocal rehabilitation. / Reduzindo o gap entre a ciência e a clínica: lições da academia e da prática profissional ­ parte B: técnicas tradicionais de terapia vocal e técnicas modernas de eletroestimulação e fotobiomodulação aplicadas à reabilitação vocal.

This text is the continuation of the XVIII SBFa Congress publication. In part "A" we presented the analyses on clinical vocal evaluation. Part "B" focuses on vocal rehabilitation: 4. Traditional techniques of vocal therapy; 5. Modern techniques of electrostimulation and photobiomodulation applied to vocal rehabilitation. The numerous studies on the various programs, methods, and techniques of traditional rehabilitation techniques, and many with high quality of evidence, allow us to consider such procedures relatively well described, safe, and with known effects, accounting for the treatment of various vocal disorders. The scientific evidence with traditional techniques is recognized worldwide. New fronts of evolution, with electrostimulation or photobiomodulation used to handle voice problems, seem to be promising as coadjutant approaches. There are more studies on electrostimulation in vocal rehabilitation than with photobiomodulation; however, scientific evidence for these two modern techniques is still limited. Knowledge and caution are required for the application of either technique.

O presente texto é a continuação da publicação referente ao XVIII Congresso da SBFa. Na parte "A" apresentamos análises sobre avaliação clínica vocal. O foco da parte "B" são aspectos de reabilitação vocal: 4. Técnicas tradicionais de terapia vocal; 5. Técnicas modernas de eletroestimulação e fotobiomodulação aplicadas à reabilitação. Os inúmeros estudos sobre os diversos programas, métodos ou técnicas tradicionais de reabilitação, muitos de elevada qualidade de evidência, permitem considerar tais procedimentos relativamente bem descritos, seguros e com efeitos conhecidos, dando conta do tratamento de diversos distúrbios vocais. As evidências científicas com as técnicas tradicionais são reconhecidas mundialmente. Novas frentes de evolução, como o uso da eletroestimulação ou fotobiomodulação em voz parecem ser promissoras como abordagens coadjuvantes. Há mais estudos sobre eletroestimulação em voz do que com fotobiomodulação, contudo, evidências científicas para essas duas técnicas modernas são ainda limitadas. Conhecimento e cautela são necessários para a aplicação de quaisquer técnicas.

The Effect of Platelet-Rich Plasma Injection on Short Term Vocal Outcomes Following Phonosurgery-A Pilot Study.

Background and Objectives: The efficiency and optimal voice rest period following phonosurgery remains debatable. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is a safe and cheap alternative to many bioactive agents being studied on animal models, and is already in use in many medical areas. We investigate the short-term effects of PRP and voice rest on voice outcomes following phonosurgery as an alternative to voice rest alone. Materials and Methods: A prospective single-blinded pilot study was conducted. Sixteen patients with a diagnosis of vocal fold cyst and polyps were included, forming equal groups (PRP and voice rest vs. voice rest alone). Voice analysis was carried out on the preoperative day, day three, and week three following surgery. The measured parameters were fundamental frequency (F0), noise-signal ratio (NSR), harmonic poverty (HP), attack alteration (AL), pitch instability (PI), and amplitude instability (AI).VHI(Voice Handicap Index)-30 questionnaires were carried out before surgery and three weeks following surgery to assess the impact of subjective voice change on quality of life. PRP was obtained using commercial kits with separator gel. Results: An average 3.68-fold increase in platelets was obtained with PRP. No side effects were noted after injection. All voice parameters improved on day three and week three following surgery. Statistical significance was noted only in the fundamental frequency of male patients (p = 0.048) in favor of the PRP-voice rest group. In addition, the VHI- 30 questionnaire results between preoperative and postoperative assessments showed statistically significant differences in total VHI score (p = 0.02) as well as the physical (p = 0.05) and emotional (p = 0.02) scale in favor of the PRP-voice rest group. Conclusions: PRP presents short term safety in patients who undergo phonosurgery, although long-term outcomes are unknown. PRP and voice rest are superior to voice rest alone when considering subjective assessment of the voice. When analyzing acoustic parameters, PRP and voice rest are not superior to voice rest alone.

The effect of breathing exercises combined with manual therapy on muscle tension dysphonia in traditional singers: a blinded randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) is common in traditional singers and can lead to serious complications, but there is inconclusive evidence about how MTD should be treated in singers as professional voice users. This study was conducted to investigate the effects of breathing exercises combined with manual therapy versus breathing exercises and manual therapy on voice quality in traditional singers suffering from MTD. METHODS: In this blinded randomized clinical trial, 60 patients with MTD were randomly allocated to four groups: (1) breathing exercises, (2) manual therapy, (3) combined intervention (CI) and (4) control. Patients received treatments for 13 sessions, once per week. Treatment effects were assessed in terms of primary outcome measures: (1) breathing performance, measured by maximum phonation time (MPT) and (2) laryngeal function, measured by Stroboscopy Evaluation Rating Form (SERF). Secondary outcome measure was patient's self-perceived voice handicap, measured by Persian version of Singing Voice Handicap Index (SVHIp). All outcome variables were measured before and after treatment. The between group comparisons on MPT and SVHIp score were investigated using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA). The Kruskal-Wallis non-parametric test was used for between group comparisons of SERF items. RESULTS: Three treatment groups had improved regarding breathing performance, laryngeal function and voice handicap over the time (P < 0.01). The improvements achieved in all outcomes were significantly greater in the CI group than those of the breathing exercises, manual therapy and control groups. CONCLUSIONS: This randomized controlled trial showed that the combination of breathing exercises and manual therapy significantly improved the laryngeal function, breathing performance and voice handicap in traditional singers suffering from MTD. TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT2015102524686N1.

The Use of Vocal Fold Injection Augmentation in a Transmasculine Patient Unsatisfied With Voice Following Testosterone Therapy and Voice Training.

INTRODUCTION: There exist a cohort of transmasculine patients who remain dissatisfied with vocal function following testosterone therapy and voice training. AIM: The objective of this case report was to describe the use of injection laryngoplasty in this cohort as an alternative to laryngeal framework surgery. METHOD: A case report and literature review was undertaken. RESULTS: Our case describes a 45-year-old transmasculine patient who remained unsatisfied with vocal pitch despite testosterone therapy and voice training. On initial presentation, the patient had fundamental frequency (fo) ranging from 70-344 Hz with a mean of approximately 135 Hz on reading, and 146 Hz in monologue. Injection augmentation of the vocal folds under local anesthesia with an injectable carboxymethylcellulose gel (prolaryn) was trialed. Following re-absorption of this, further injection was performed using autologous fat and subsequently a longer acting Calcium Hydroxyapatite injectable (Prolaryn Plus). This was followed by re-injection 1 year later. Patient satisfaction has been sustained throughout this period. Repeat acoustic evaluation in 2019 revealed a mean fo of 108 Hz on reading, 100 Hz in monologue, and a fo range of 85-134 Hz across these tasks. CONCLUSION: This case report presents an alternative surgical intervention to supplement testosterone and voice training in transmasculine patients unsatisfied with vocal function.

The Effects of Therapeutic Singing on Vocal Functions of the Elderly: A Study on Korean Elderly.

This study investigated the effects of therapeutic singing as an intervention for improving the vocal functions of the elderly. Data collection for this study took place at five senior community centers in Seoul, South Korea, from August 2018 to March 2019. A total of 54 elderly with healthy voices were assigned to a therapeutic singing group, a general singing group, or a control group, using convenience sampling. The therapeutic singing intervention involved using the Alexander technique, performing oral motor and respiratory exercises, and singing participant-written songs, across 12 sessions. The general singing group sang popular and folk songs of their choice. The control group received no treatment. Using peak expiratory flow rate (PEF) and Praat analysis, the participants' vocal functions were measured before and immediately after the intervention. Vocal function was compared among the groups pre- and post-test; the therapeutic singing group showed statistically significant improvement in all vocal parameters: PEF, maximum phonation time, voice intensity (intensity), fundamental frequency (F0), jitter, shimmer, and noise-to harmonics ratio. The general singing group showed improvement only in F0, jitter, and noise-to harmonics ratio. The control group showed an overall reduction in all vocal functions, with a significant decrease in PEF and intensity, and a decrease in jitter and shimmer. Although singing is considered helpful for the voice health of the elderly, therapeutic singing, which involves posture correction and breathing exercises, is even more effective, thus proving to be a viable intervention for preventive voice care of the elderly.

Efeitos dos exercícios vocais no tratamento da disfagia: revisão integrativa / Effects of vocal exercises on the treatment of dysphagia: integrative review

RESUMO Objetivo verificar as evidências disponíveis sobre o efeito dos exercícios vocais no tratamento da disfagia. Estratégia de pesquisa foi realizado levantamento bibliográfico nas bases de dados PubMed, LILACS, SciELO e MEDLINE, sem restrições quanto ao período de publicação. Critérios de seleção artigos originais, estudos de caso e/ou revisões de literatura publicados nos idiomas português e/ou inglês, disponíveis eletronicamente na íntegra e que abordassem o tratamento clínico com exercícios vocais em adultos e idosos com disfagia. Foram excluídas publicações repetidas nas bases de dados, com população de crianças, com indivíduos que não apresentassem o diagnóstico de disfagia, com exercícios vocais sem especificação, com exercícios exclusivos de deglutição, artigos e/ou resumos sem possibilidade de acesso pelas plataformas institucionais e estudos com modelo animal. Resultados foram encontrados 2.356 artigos, dos quais, após aplicados os critérios de elegibilidade, foram selecionados 8 para a amostra final. Para avaliar os efeitos dos exercícios vocais, os estudos utilizaram avaliação clínica, videofluoroscopia, videoendoscopia e eletromiografia. Quanto aos efeitos dos exercícios vocais na deglutição, observou-se que as técnicas de som plosivo, empuxo, trato vocal semiocluído, som basal, modulação vocal, sobrearticulação, o método Lee Silverman Voice Treatment® e o uso de exercícios de treino de força muscular expiratória apresentaram efeitos positivos na reabilitação da disfagia. Conclusão os estudos com treino de força muscular expiratória, o método Lee Silverman e os exercícios vocais tradicionais demonstraram efeitos positivos no tratamento da disfagia. No entanto, ainda não foi possível comprovar o nível de evidências de todos os estudos.

ABSTRACT Purpose To verify the available evidence on the effect of vocal exercises on the treatment of dysphagia. Research strategy A bibliographic survey was carried out in the PubMed, LILACS, SciELO and MEDLINE databases, with no restrictions on the publication period. Selection criteria Original articles, case studies and/or literature reviews published in Portuguese and/or English, available electronically in full and addressing clinical treatment with vocal exercises in adults and elderly with dysphagia. Publications repeated by the databases, with a population of children, individuals who did not present the diagnosis of dysphagia, with vocal exercises without specification, with exclusive swallowing exercises, articles and/or abstracts without the possibility of access by institutional platforms, and studies with animal model were excluded. Results A total of 2,356 articles were found, of which, after the eligibility criteria were applied, 08 were selected for the final sample. To evaluate the effects of vocal exercises, the studies used clinical evaluation, videofluoroscopy, videoendoscopy and electromyography. Regarding the effects of vocal exercises on swallowing, it was observed that the techniques of plosive sound, buoyancy, semi-occluded vocal tract, basal sound, vocal modulation, overarticulation, the Lee Silverman Voice Treatment method® and the use of expiratory muscle strength training exercises showed positive effects in the rehabilitation of dysphagia. Conclusion It was observed that studies with expiratory muscle strength training (EMST), Lee Silverman method (LSVT®) and traditional vocal exercises demonstrated positive effects in the treatment of dysphagia. However, it has not yet been possible to prove the level of evidence in all studies.

Neuroauriculotherapy: Framework and Remarks for a possible use in Voice Medicine / Neuroauriculoterapia: marco y observaciones para un posible uso en medicina de la voz

Aim. Neuroauriculotherapy (NAT) is a branch of medicine, which, thanks to its diagnostic and therapeutic value, is a powerful tool at the service of both physician and patient. In our experience, as it is discussed in this article, neuroauriculotherapy can have successful applications in voice science and in phoniatrics. The aim of this article is to open a discussion about possible applications of neuroauriculotherapy in voice medicine. Introduction. From the diagnostic point of view, it is possible to explore, with a palpeur (i.e., a tool that provides a constant pressure) or a "spot-hunter", the presence of a perturbation into a particular organ or area, and its return to normal during treatment. Indeed, at the level of the ear auricle, representations of an organ, its in-nervation, its muscular components, etc., are fixed. These spots or voxels correspond absolutely to the respective sensory, motor, visceral, among other spots. Therefore, if any abnormal potential comes from the periphery, it will illuminate the spots both at the cortical level and in the pavilion ­a real display with a constantly active touch screen. The spot can be treated with needles in the context of a neurophysiological strategy to send a message to the brain.Reflection. NAT appears to be a good method to improve the treatment of voice problems, enhancing the results of other therapies based on drugs or rehab and in-ducing relaxation. In neuroauriculotherapy, the ear is used to give the brain orders in a process which has a logical basis in neurophysiology.Conclusion. Diseases of the vocal tract can be dysfunctional or organic. According to our clinical experience, we can say that neuroauriculotherapy can be used in both cases. Neuroauriculotherapy is also extremely effective in voice therapy, both alone and in combination with other therapies, as there is no conflict among them

Objetivo. La neuroauriculoterapia (NAT) es una rama de la medicina que, gracias a su valor diagnóstico y terapéutico, constituye una poderosa herramienta al servicio del médico y del paciente. En nuestra experiencia, como se comenta en este artículo, la neuroauriculoterapia puede tener aplicaciones exitosas en la ciencia de la voz y en foniatría. El objetivo de este artículo es abrir una discusión sobre las posibles aplica-ciones de la neuroauriculoterapia en la medicina de la voz.Introducción. Desde el punto de vista del diagnóstico, es posible explorar, con un palpeur (i.e., una herramienta que proporciona una presión constante) o un "spot-hunter", la presencia de una perturbación en un órgano o área en particular, y su retorno a la normalidad durante el tratamiento. En efecto, a nivel del pabellón auricular se fijan representaciones de un órgano, su inervación, sus componentes musculares, etc. Estos puntos o vóxeles corresponden absolutamente a los respectivos puntos sensoriales, motores, viscerales, entre otros. Por lo tanto, si algún potencial anormal proviene de la periferia, iluminará los puntos tanto a nivel cortical como en el pabellón ­una pantalla real con una pantalla táctil constantemente activa. El punto se puede tratar con agujas en el contexto de una estrategia neurofisiológica para enviar un mensaje al cerebro.Reflexión. NAT parece ser un buen método para mejorar el tratamiento de los problemas de voz, potenciando los resultados de otras terapias basadas en fármacos o rehabilitación e induciendo a la relajación. En neuroauriculoterapia se utiliza el oído para dar órdenes al cerebro en un proceso que tiene una base lógica en la neurofisiología.Conclusión. Las enfermedades del tracto vocal pueden ser disfuncionales u orgáni-cas. Según nuestra experiencia clínica, podemos decir que la neuroauriculoterapia se puede utilizar en ambos casos. La neuroauriculoterapia también es extremadamente eficaz en la terapia de la voz, tanto sola como en combinación con otras terapias, ya que no existe conflicto entre ellas

Programa Condicionamento Vocal e Respiratório (CVR): proposta de intervenção para profissionais da voz / Vocal and Respiratory Conditioning (VRC) Program: intervention proposal for voice professional / Programa de Condicionamiento Vocal y Respiratorio (CVR): propuesta de intervención para profesionales de la voz

Programas de intervenção para profissionais da voz podem englobar estratégias de treinamento muscular vocal e respiratório. Neste tipo de abordagem, a integração de ações fonoaudiológicas e fisioterapêuticas tem produzido resultados positivos. A presente comunicação tem como objetivo apresentar uma proposta de intervenção fonoaudiológica e fisioterapêutica denominada Condicionamento Vocal e Respiratório (CVR), desenvolvida com profissionais da voz. Composta por oito encontros semanais, ela teve como objetivo aumentar a resistência vocal e respiratória dos participantes, promovendo melhor desempenho profissional. Para a fonação, foram indicados exercícios de trato vocal semiocluído com a utilização de canudos comerciais e de silicone; para a respiração, foram realizados exercícios com um incentivador a fluxo (Respiron Classic®).

Intervention program for voice professionals may cover strategies for vocal and respiratory muscle training. The integration of speech-language pathology and physiotherapeutic interventions in these approaches has resulted in positive outcomes. This communication aims to introduce a proposal for speech-language pathology and physiotherapy intervention called Vocal and Respiratory Conditioning (VRC). Developed with voice professionals and consisting of eight weekly meetings, this proposal aimed to increase the vocal and respiratory endurance of the participants, promoting better professional performance. On the one hand, semi-occluded vocal tract exercises using commercial and silicone straws were indicated for phonation; on the other hand, exercises with a flow stimulator (Respiron®) were performed for breathing.

Los programas de intervención para profesionales de la voz pueden incluir estrategias de entrenamiento de los músculos vocales y respiratorios. En este tipo de abordaje, la integración de las acciones de fonoaudiología y fisioterapia ha producido resultados positivos. Esta comunicación tiene como objetivo presentar una propuesta de intervención fonoaudiológica y fisioterapeutica denominada Condicionamiento Vocal y Respiratorio (CVR), desarrollada con profesionales de la voz. Compuesto por ocho reuniones semanales, tuvo como objetivo aumentar la resistencia vocal y respiratoria de los participantes, promoviendo un mejor desempeño profesional. Para la fonación, se indicaron ejercicios de vías vocales semicerrados utilizando canutos comerciales y de silicona; para la respiración, los ejercicios se realizaron con un estimulador de flujo (Respiron Classic®).

Effects of Humidification of the Vocal Tract and Respiratory Muscle Training in Women With Voice Symptoms-A Pilot Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy of a 4-week breathing exercise intervention in participants with voice symptoms. METHODS: Six nonsmoking women (mean age 49) experiencing voice symptoms used a novel device WellO2 for respiratory exercises that provides counter pressure during both inspiration and expiration and warms and humidifies the breathing air. Speech samples were acoustically (Acoustic Voice Quality Index) and perceptually (grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, and strain scale) analyzed, and perceived voice symptoms and self-reported effort in breathing and phonation were obtained. Respiratory measurements included breathing frequency and pattern, peak expiratory flow, forced vital capacity, and forced expiratory volume in 1 minute. RESULTS: The total scores of Acoustic Voice Quality Index and some of its subcomponents (shimmer and harmonic-to-noise ratio), and the grade, roughness, and strain of the GRBAS scale indicated significantly improved voice quality. However, neither the nature or frequency of the experienced voice symptoms nor the perceived phonatory effort changed as the function of intervention. According to the participants, their breathing was significantly less effortful after the intervention, although no significant changes were observed in the objective respiratory measurements with a spirometer. CONCLUSION: Training with the WellO2 device has the potential to improve voice quality. The combination of inspiratory and expiratory training and warmed, humidified air is a multifaceted entity influencing several parts in the physiology of voice production. The effects of using WellO2 need to be confirmed by further studies with a larger number of participants.

How Do Tube Diameter and Vocal Tract Configuration Affect Oral Pressure Oscillation Characteristics Caused by Bubbling During Water Resistance Therapy?

PURPOSE: The present study aimed at observing the effect of tube diameter and vocal tract configuration on frequency, amplitude, and regularity of Poral oscillation caused by bubbling during water resistance therapy (WRT). A secondary objective was to examine the degree of self-perceived sensation of massage-like effect produced by bubbles during WRT. METHODS: Forty-two participants were included in this study. Assessment protocol included: (1) self-assessment of massage-like sensation and (2) objective assessment of air pressure-related variables. In the first section, participants were instructed to select and produce a sustained-vowel like phonation into three different tubes (varying inner diameter) submerged 5 cm below the water surface. Also, two different vocal tract configurations were produced by all subjects: (1) horizontal position (regular vocal tract position), (2) vertical position (yawning position with low vertical laryngeal position). Participants were asked to self-assess their massage-like sensation. In the second section, objective measurements of air pressure-related variables were acquired during WRT exercises. RESULTS: Statistical differences were driven by tube inner diameter for oral pressure oscillation frequency, amplitude, jitter and shimmer and self-perceived massage-like sensation. Vocal tract position generated differences for medium-size tube and large-size tube only for self-perceived massage-like sensation. CONCLUSION: Inner diameter of tube and configuration of vocal tract affect bubble characteristics and massage-like sensation during WRT. Larger tube diameters and vocal tract volumes seem to produce more regular bubbles, lower bubble frequency, and larger bubble amplitude, causing a more evident massage-like sensation. Therefore, control of these variables is apparently relevant to obtain the best effect in patients with voice disorders.

Singing Voice Therapy Revisited / Revisión de la terapia de voz cantada

Introduction. Singing is a type of sportive activity and, like sports medicine, profes-sional voice medicine is interested in the habilitation and rehabilitation of the vocal performer. The vocal needs of the professional vocal performer may not be similar to other professional or non-professional voice users. Like a professional athlete, a vocal performer's ability to perform for many decades at a high level will be enhanced by basing artistic and lifestyle decisions on a scientifically sound foundation. Objective. The aim of this study is to present a multidimensional introduction to the methods of SVT, incorporating the principles of sport and exercise medicine, and physical therapy and rehabilitation.Reflection. Singing voice therapy needs to provide answers to "what", "why", "how", and "when" questions. SVT must first correctly identify the problem, leading to the "how to do" solutions for a wide variety of cases, followed by a schedule of prescribed activities including answers to the "why" question (which exercise relates to which muscle). The periodization and motor learning principles provide a temporal answer to the "when" question when developing habilitation and/or rehabilitative protocols.Conclusion. Singing is not only an artistic expression, but also a sportive performance. The clinical approach to professional voice is a multidimensional and multilayered team effort. All practices are structured by blending scientific and ped-agogical knowledge

Introducción. El canto es una forma de actividad deportiva y, al igual que la medicina deportiva, la medicina vocal profesional se interesa por la habilitación y rehabilitación del intérprete vocal. Las necesidades vocales del intérprete vocal profesional pueden no ser similares a las de otros usuarios de voz profesionales o no profesionales. Al igual que un atleta profesional, la capacidad de un intérprete vocal para desempeñarse durante muchas décadas a un alto nivel se mejorará al basar las decisiones artísticas y de estilo de vida en un fundamento científicamente sólido. Objetivo. El objetivo de este estudio es presentar una introducción multidimensional a los métodos de TSV, incorporando los principios de la medicina del deporte y el ejercicio, y la fisioterapia y rehabilitación. Reflexión. La terapia de la voz cantada debe proporcionar respuestas a preguntas de "qué", "por qué", "cómo" y "cuándo". SVT primero debe identificar correctamente el problema, lo que lleva a las soluciones de "cómo hacer" para una amplia variedad de casos, seguido de un programa de actividades prescritas que incluyen respuestas a la pregunta "por qué" (qué ejercicio se relaciona con qué músculo). Los principios de periodización y aprendizaje motor proporcionan una respuesta temporal a la pregunta de "cuándo", al desarrollar protocolos de habilitación y/o rehabilitación. Conclusión. Cantar no es solo una expresión artística, sino también una actuación deportiva. El enfoque clínico de la voz profesional es un esfuerzo de equipo multidimensional y de múltiples capas. Todas las prácticas están estructuradas, al combinar conocimientos científicos y pedagógicos.

Vocal Pedagogy and the Alexander Technique: a reflection / La pedagogía vocal y la Técnica Alexander: una reflexión

This article is a reflection about the role of the Alexander Technique and its appli-cation and influence in vocal pedagogy. It is based on more than seventeen years of active teaching as a qualified Alexander Technique Teacher and as a professional singer, working alongside vocal pedagogues, teachers, students and professionals. Its objective is to reflect upon the role of body awareness, psychophysical and emotional consciousness, and wellbeing in the realms of vocal pedagogy and singing.

El presente artículo corresponde a una reflexión sobre la Técnica Alexander, su aplicación e influencia dentro del ámbito de la pedagogía vocal. Está basado en los últimos diecisiete años de carrera activa como profesora de Técnica Alexander y cantante profesional, trabajando con cantantes y profesores de canto con el objetivo de lograr una buena reflexión de la importancia del proceso de consciencia corporal, conexión sicofísica y bienestar en la pedagogía vocal

Objetivos de intervención en voz: Una propuesta para su análisis y redacción / Voice therapy goals: a proposal for analysis and writing

Este artículo de reflexión aborda aspectos que dan cuenta de la complejidad en el planteamiento de objetivos en torno a los marcos de abordaje vocal contemporáneos. Se plantea la complejidad de la selección y redacción de objetivos para la interven-ción en voz holística y ecléctica, y desde ella, la necesidad de incorporar el modelo CIF y las recomendaciones de la ASHA para el desarrollo de objetivos centrados en la persona, tanto a corto como a largo plazo. Se propone la utilización del método de análisis SMART y su aplicación específica para objetivos de intervención de la voz. Además, se abordan los aspectos formales que se deben considerar para una redacción precisa. Finalmente, se ejemplifica la propuesta mediante un caso clínico. Esta propuesta pretende ser de utilidad para fines terapéuticos y/o para el ámbito académico, tanto en la discusión de la formulación y diseño de planes terapéuticos como en el pensamiento reflexivo asociado al abordaje vocal.

This reflective article addresses aspects that deal with the complexity of objective setting in contemporary vocal approach frameworks. It addresses the complexity in selecting and writing objectives for holistic and eclectic voice therapy and the need to incorporate the ICF model and ASHA recommendations for the development of person-centered goals in both the short and long term. The use of the SMART analysis method is proposed and its specific application for voice therapy goal. Also, the formal aspects to be considered for precise wording are addressed. Finally, the proposal is exemplified through a clinical case. This proposal is intended to be useful for therapeutic and/or academic purposes, both in discussing the formula-tion and design of therapeutic plans and the reflective thinking associated with the vocal approach.

Rehabilitation Therapy for Vocal Fold Paralysis Caused by Lung Cancer: A Case Report.

OBJECTIVE: Unilateral vocal fold paralysis (UVFP) can be caused by iatrogenic injury or tumor-induced damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Studies of comprehensive rehabilitation therapies for patients suffering from severe UVFP are limited. The purpose of this case report is to describe an improvement in complete aphonia after comprehensive rehabilitation therapies in a patient with severe UVFP due to a lung tumor. METHODS: An 81-year-old woman with a history of bronchial adenoma had complete aphonia due to compression of the left recurrent laryngeal nerve by the tumor. Dynamic fibrolaryngoscope revealed paralysis of the left vocal fold. The patient was treated with interferential current therapy, vocal training, and kinesiology taping. Indicators of voice recovery were scored according to the grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain scale, and the voice handicap index. RESULTS: After 10 days of comprehensive rehabilitation treatment, the patient recovered from complete aphonia to normal communication. The hoarseness and breathiness of patient were significantly improved. In addition, the grade, roughness, breathiness, asthenia, strain, and the voice handicap index scores changed from severe to mild or absent. CONCLUSION: This case provided a novel comprehensive treatment for a patient with UVFP, which was safe, cost-effective, and easy to implement in clinic.

A Pilot Study Assessing the Therapeutic Potential of a Vibratory Positive Expiratory Pressure Device (Acapella Choice) in the Treatment of Voice Disorders.

INTRODUCTION: Semioccluded vocal tract exercises (SOVTEs) can involve a single source of vibration (eg, vocal folds in the straw exercise) or a dual source of vibration (eg, vocal folds and water bubbling in tube phonation) in the vocal tract. Oftentimes, this secondary source of vibration causes large oscillations in intraoral pressure and has been likened to a "massage effect." This study assesses the implementation of a positive expiratory pressure device (Acapella Choice) as a possible alternative SOVTE, which presents a secondary source of vibration without the need of a water container. METHODS: Twenty-two normophonic participants underwent acoustic, electroglottographic, and aerodynamic assessment before, during, and after phonation with two different established SOTVEs (silicone tube in water and straw in air) in addition to Acapella Choice. RESULTS: Acapella Choice produced the largest peak-to-peak amplitudes of intraoral pressure oscillation. Straw in air produced the largest static intraoral pressure. Straw in air and Acapella Choice presented significantly larger ranges of static pressures than tube in water phonation. Post-exercise condition showed a statistically larger sound pressure level for Acapella Choice. CONCLUSIONS: Positive expiratory pressure devices, such as Acapella Choice, may be a promising alternative to established SOVTEs as it promotes large oscillatory pressures in the vocal tract without the need for a water container. This exercise also produces larger sound pressure level with no significant changes in glottic contact quotient, indicating improved vocal economy.

Alternatives to Acid Suppression Treatment for Laryngopharyngeal Reflux.

OBJECTIVE: Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) and associated symptoms can be refractory to treatment with acid suppressing medication. We investigated the role and evidence for complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) for LPR in this systematic review. REVIEW METHODS: Complementary and alternative treatment was defined in this systematic review as any non-acid suppressing medication, treatment, or therapy. A literature search was performed by two authors in consultation with a medical librarian using controlled vocabulary for "complementary and alternative medicine" and "laryngopharyngeal reflux" in the databases PubMed and EMBASE, with supplemental searches with Google Scholar. RESULTS: Twenty articles were included in this review for the modalities: alginate, diet modification, prokinetics, respiratory retraining, voice therapy, rikkunshito (RKT), hypnotherapy, and sleep positioning. The studies were analyzed for bias based on the Cochrane criteria for RCTs and Methodological Index for non-RCT (MINORS) criteria for all other studies. For each modality a level of evidence was assigned to the current body of evidence using the GRADE approach. CONCLUSION: There is mixed evidence with a high degree of bias and heterogeneity between studies for the modalities presented in the paper. Based on this review, an anti-reflux diet is recommended for all patients and there is some low-quality evidence to support alkaline water. For patients with predominant vocal symptoms there is evidence that supports voice therapy. There is insufficient evidence to recommend prokinetics at this time. For patients with predominant globus symptoms, alginate, RKT, and relaxation strategies may be used in conjunction with acid suppressing medications for symptom relief.

The Effects of Three Physical and Vocal Warm-up Procedures on Acoustic and Perceptual Measures of Choral Sound: Study Replication With Younger Populations.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to replicate a previous investigation to assess with two intact children's choirs and a high school choir the potential effects of three choral warm-up procedures (vocal-only, physical-only, physical/vocal combination) on acoustic and perceptual measures of choral sound. METHODS: The researchers tested three videotaped, 5-minute, choral warm-up procedures on two children's and one high school choir. After participating in a warm-up procedure, each choir was recorded singing a folk song for long-term average spectra and pitch analysis. Singer participants responded to a questionnaire about preferences after each warm-up procedure. Warm-up procedures and recording sessions occurred during each choir's regular rehearsal time and in each choir's regular rehearsal space during three consecutive rehearsals. RESULTS: Long-term average spectra results demonstrated more resonant singing after the physical/vocal warm-up for two of the three choirs. Pitch analysis results indicated that two of the three choirs sang "in-tune" after participating in the physical/vocal warm-up and two choirs sang "in-tune" after participating in the physical-only warm-up. Singer questionnaire responses showed a preference for the physical/vocal combination warm-up, and singer ranking of the three procedures indicated the physical/vocal warm-up as the most favored for readiness to sing. CONCLUSIONS: This study replication indicates similar conclusions as the original investigation with university choruses: a combination choral warm-up that includes both physical and vocal aspects is preferred by singers of all ages, enables more resonant singing, and more in-tune singing. Findings from these investigations provide choral educators with compelling information concerning efficient and effective choral warm-up procedures.