Behavioral Treatment of Voice Disorders in Teachers

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this paper is to review the literature on the behavioral treatment of voice disorders in teachers. The focus is on phonogenic disorders, that is voice disorders thought to be caused by voice use. Methods: Review of the literature and commentary. Results: The review exposes distinct holes in the literature on the treatment of voice problems in teachers. However, emerging trends in treatment are noted. For example, most studies identified for review implemented a multiple-therapy approach in a group setting, in contrast to only a few studies that assessed a single-therapy approach with individual patients. Although the review reveals that the evidence around behavioral treatment of voice disorders in teachers is mixed, a growing body of data provides some indicators on how effectively rehabilitation of teachers with phonogenic voice problems might be approached. Specifically, voice amplification demonstrates promise as a beneficial type of indirect therapy and vocal function exercises as well as resonant voice therapy show possible benefits as direct therapies. Finally, only a few studies identified even remotely begin to meet guidelines of the Consolidated Standards of Reporting Trials statement, a finding that emphasizes the need to increase the number of investigations that adhere to strict research standards. Conclusions: Although data on the treatment of voice problems in teachers are still limited in the literature, emerging trends are noted. The accumulation of sufficient studies will ultimately provide useful evidence about this societally important issue.