Retrospective study of 116 patients with non-organic voice disorders: efficacy of mental imagery and laryngeal shaking

Abstract

AbstractObjective:To report the short- and long-term results of two techniques (mental imagery and manual shaking of the larynx) in patients with non-organic dysphonia or aphonia.Design:Retrospective review of patient records, plus follow-up survey (questionnaire).Setting:Academic teaching hospital.Patients:One hundred and sixteen patients with moderate to severe non-organic dysphonia or aphonia.Outcome:Cure (i.e. normal voice) and improved voice quality, judged by clinicians and patients.Results:One hundred (86 per cent) of the 116 patients were cured. Ninety-four (81 per cent) patients regained their normal voice within one therapy session. The follow-up survey revealed that 43 of the 87 (49 per cent) patients who responded had not had a relapse since therapy ended. Of those patients suffering relapse, 15 successfully applied mental imagery in order to retrieve their voice, compared with three patients who applied shaking of the larynx.Conclusion:Mental imagery, combined if necessary with manual therapy, is an effective therapeutic technique in patients with non-organic voice disorders.