Authors: Niebudek-Bogusz E, Sznurowska-Przygocka B, Fiszer M, Kotylo P, Sinkiewicz A, Modrzewska M, Sliwinska-Kowalska M
Title: The effectiveness of voice therapy for teachers with dysphonia
Source: Folia Phoniatrica et Logopedica 2008 60(3): 134-141
Year: 2008
Research Design: Non Randomised Controlled Trial
Rating Score: 01/10
This rating is confirmed
Eligibility specified - N
Random allocation - N
Concealed allocation - N
Baseline comparability - N
Blind subjects - N
Blind therapists - N
Blind assessors - N
Adequate follow-up - Y
Intention-to-treat analysis - N
Between-group comparisons - N
Point estimates and variability - N
Abstract:

OBJECTIVE: An incorrect voice emission is a risk factor for developing occupational voice disorders. The study aimed at assessing the effectiveness of voice therapy in female teachers with dysphonia. METHODS: The study comprised 133 subjects with voice disorders, taking part in a vocal training programme. A reference group for the present study included 53 teachers with dysphonia. Questionnaire surveys, phoniatric examination and videostroboscopic evaluation were conducted at initial and control examination. RESULTS: In the study group, an improvement after the vocal training was noted in most of the reported symptoms and also in some quantitative parameters of phoniatric examinations compared to the findings for the reference group. The number of patients who assessed their voice as normal increased significantly after the vocal training (2.3 vs. 46.6%). A significant increase in the mean maximum phonation time, from 13.3 to 16.6 s, was observed. The same applied to voice frequency range (increase from 171 to 226.8 Hz). CONCLUSIONS: The outcomes of vocal training, such as a subjective improvement of voice quality and an increase in the quantitative parameters (prolonged maximum phonation time, extended voice range) seem to be important parameters for monitoring the effectiveness of training in correct voice emission.

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