Exploring the effect of laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation on voice.
OBJECTIVE
This study was conducted to explore the potential use of neuromuscular electrical stimulation as an adjunctive treatment for muscle tension dysphonia.


METHODS
Voice data and ratings of fatigue and soreness were obtained for two experiments. Experiment one examined the vocal effects of neuromuscular electrical stimulation applied to the neck for 15 minutes. Experiment two examined the recovery effect of laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation following a vocal loading task among normophonic women.


RESULTS
No significant differences in vocal function following 15 minutes of laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation were found. Six of 11 participants receiving laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation exhibited improved recovery following the vocal loading task.


CONCLUSIONS
A short session of laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation may be beneficial in reducing muscle fatigue for some individuals. Further investigation is warranted to determine the applicability of laryngeal neuromuscular electrical stimulation in voice therapy.
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders,Valdosta State University,Georgia,USA.
M
M
Gorham-Rowan
School of Communication Sciences and Disorders,Florida State University,Tallahassee,USA.
R
R
Morris
D000328:Adult; D055154:Dysphonia / Q000503:physiopathology / Q000628:therapy*; D004599:Electric Stimulation Therapy / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007821:Laryngeal Muscles / Q000503:physiopathology; D007823:Laryngeal Nerves / Q000503:physiopathology; D007830:Larynx / Q000503:physiopathology; D008875:Middle Aged; D018763:Muscle Fatigue; D020127:Recovery of Function; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014831:Voice / Q000502:physiology*; D055815:Young Adult
Acoustic; Dysphonia; Electrical Stimulation; Voice