Speech Therapy for Individuals with Vocal Fold Atrophy

As individuals get older, it is common for muscles to begin to atrophy. Muscle atrophy refers to the process of losing muscle mass or muscle tissue, resulting in smaller and weaker muscles. When this occurs with the vocal folds, it can affect an individual’s vocal quality and communication abilities. The terms vocal cords and vocal folds can be used interchangeably, as they refer to the same part of the body. While vocal cords contain multiple layers of tissue, the muscle of the vocal folds is what gives power and fullness to the voice. 

Changes in vocal cord strength can impact vocal volume and cause the vocal folds to ‘bow’ inwards, a condition that is known as presbylaryngis or presbyphonia. This condition can make it difficult for the vocal folds to close fully during speech, causing other related muscles to contract tightly to offset the reduced closure of the vocal cords. Changes to the voice can result, often impacting an individual’s ability to communicate clearly and effectively. 

Voice therapy with an experienced speech and language pathologist provides support for vocal health and can help strengthen the vocal cord muscles. If you would like to learn more about whether voice therapy might be right for you, connect with us by scheduling your free introductory call today!  

How Does the Voice Work?

When we produce vocal sounds, air must flow from the lungs to our trachea and then to the voice box. Inside the larynx is where two vocal folds can be located. The vocal folds are flexible muscles that vibrate as air flows through them. These vibrations create sounds that are our voices. 

Ideally, the vocal folds vibrate simultaneously to create a clear and strong vocal sound. Some vocal disorders that affect the strength of the vocal cord muscles cause the vocal folds to vibrate sporadically or aren’t able to fully close. 

What Disorders Affect the Vocal Cords?

Current estimates suggest that almost 18 million Americans struggle with voice problems of some kind. Many of these individuals do not seek treatment, hoping that the issues with their voice will resolve on their own. This is not common, and in most instances of voice disorders, voice therapy with a qualified speech and language pathologist is required. 

Some of the most commonly treated voice disorders by speech therapists include: 

Vocal Cord Dysfunction: Vocal Cord Dysfunction, also referred to as VCD, causes the vocal folds to close when they should be open. This can lead to difficulties breathing during periods of activity and cause general irritation of the throat. 

Vocal Cord Lesions: Sometimes, noncancerous lesions or growths develop on the vocal cords, affecting vocal quality and health. These most commonly occur in singers, teachers, lawyers, actors, and any individuals who frequently use their voices. 

Vocal Cord Paralysis: This disorder occurs when the movement of one or both of the vocal folds is reduced or impossible. Vocal cord paralysis occurs because of scarring of the tissue or nerve damage in the area and can lead to vocal hoarseness, shortness of breath, and difficulty swallowing. 

What are the Symptoms of Vocal Cord Atrophy?

Vocal cord atrophy can affect individuals in different ways and can vary significantly in severity, though it is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 60. Some of the most common symptoms of vocal cord atrophy include: 

A Reduction in Vocal Volume
Changes in Vocal Pitch, Most Commonly a Higher Pitched-Voice
A Breathy or “Weak” Sounding Voice
Speech Requires Increased Effort
Becoming Tired Easily when Speaking
Difficulty Communicating with Others

If you or someone close to you is struggling with a voice disorder and could benefit from the support of an experienced speech and language pathologist, getting started with voice therapy is easy! Simply schedule your free introductory call today! 

How Do You Treat Vocal Fold Paresis? 

For individuals diagnosed with vocal fold atrophy or paresis, voice therapy with a speech therapist is the most effective and common method of treatment. Voice therapy focuses on improving vocal techniques and enhancing overall breath control and support. Working with a speech therapist to improve vocal health leads to improvements in volume and pitch, as well as vocal quality and overall endurance. 

Speech therapy for vocal cord atrophy or paresis involves specific exercises to strengthen the vocal cord muscles, address related voice challenges such as hoarseness, and reduce the effort required for speech. 

What are the Exercises for VCD Speech Therapy?

During speech therapy appointments for vocal health, the speech therapist will provide exercises and techniques to improve overall vocal function. These exercises are tailored to the needs of each individual and can vary depending on the specific vocal issues and the identified cause. Some of the most commonly used voice therapy exercises for VCD include: 

Breathing Exercises that Target Diaphragmatic Breathing Patterns

Exercises to Release Muscle Tension in the Throat, such as Massage or Stretching 

Activities that Promote Healthy Vocal Cord Vibration and Function, such as Lip Trills and Humming

Techniques to Build the Power of the Voice and Strengthen Weak Vocal Cords

Can Speech Therapy Help Damaged Vocal Cords?

Speech therapy for vocal health can be effective at preventing damage to the vocal cords and help individuals develop healthy vocal habits, known as vocal hygiene. Vocal therapy helps individuals who use their voice professionally to avoid voice issues such as hoarseness and lesions which are common. 

Voice therapy is also effective at reducing vocal cord swelling by improving vocal fold vibrations during speech and helping with the healing process following surgery. Working with a speech therapist to improve vocal health can allow individuals to recover their vocal function and overcome the impact of a voice disorder or vocal cord dysfunction. By participating in targeted exercises and activities, individuals can regain their vocal strength, heal damaged vocal cords, and ensure future voice problems are prevented.

If you are ready to get started with voice therapy, don’t delay! Schedule your free introductory call now!