The general aim of the study is to provide evidence for usability and feasibility of applying vibro-tactile stimulation (VTS) at home as a non-invasive form of neuromodulation to improve speech in people with spasmodic dysphonia (SD). This work addresses a clinical need to develop alternative or auxiliary treatments for a rare voice disorder with very limited treatment options. Successful completion of the proposed work will be an important step in advancing laryngeal VTS as a therapeutic intervention for improving voice symptoms in SD.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NA
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
40
Vibro-tactile stimulation is a non-invasive treatment option. As stimulators, we will apply a pair of light-weight encapsulated cylindrical vibrators to both sides of the larynx (voice box). The vibration frequency for VTS will set be to 100Hz and the participant may feel a mild tingling or vibrating sensation during VTS. The participants will be asked to apply for VTS at home over a period of 8 weeks. The participants will be asked to use this device for 3 days in the first week, 4 days in the second week, 5 days in the third week and 6 days in the fourth week. During the last 4 weeks, the participants will apply VTS on self-selected days as needed, not exceeding 6 times a week, to control and improve symptoms.
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
Perceived voice effort
Participants will rate their perceived effort level of vocalization on an ordinal scale of 0 to 10 (0 being with no effort and 10 being with maximal effort). The recordings will provide subjective impression of treatment.
Time frame: 8 weeks
The number of voice breaks
Prior to study begin, participants will receive a manual with instructions about the remote audio recording procedure. During pre- and post-application assessment, participants will record their voices using a voice recording application on their smartphone or digital tablet. The recordings will provide objective data on the number of voice breaks.
Time frame: 8 weeks
The duration of voice break
Prior to study begin, participants will receive a manual with instructions about the remote audio recording procedure. During pre- and post-application assessment, participants will record their voices using a voice recording application on their smartphone or digital tablet. The recordings will provide objective data on the duration of voice breaks.
Time frame: 8 weeks
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