Speech and language therapy for children with phonotrauma

Abstract

Introduction. Proper voice production requires coordinated, synchronous and efficient functioning of the larynx, respiratory, resonance and articulation mechanisms. Phonotrauma is trauma to the laryngeal mechanism and includes any behavior that results in injury to the vocal folds. The aim of this research was to identify and describe the characteristics of voice disorders in children that occur as a result of phonotrauma, approach?es and techniques in speech and language therapy of these speech disorders, and the effects of their application. The characteristics of phonotrauma in children reflect the characteristics of hyperfunctional voice disorders, as they usually arise as a result of voice abuse. Speech and language therapy of children with phonotrauma includes identification and reduction, i.e. elimination of the vocal behavior that had caused the voice disorder. In addition, treatment focuses on a vocal hygiene program and the use of various direct treatment techniques to achieve appropriate voice production. Effects of applying direct and indirect treatment techniques is demonstrated by the reduction of the size of the lesion, the degree of dysphonia and voice disorders, hoarseness, breathiness in the voice, the absence of recurrence, and the achievement of optimal values of the acoustic parameters of the voice. Conclusion. In most cases, children can master the correct way of producing speech after a short period of speech and language therapy. However, in order to achieve this goal, it is necessary to actively involve children, their parents, and other people from the immediate and wider social environment.