Voice Disorders

At Garden State Speech Therapy, our comprehensive assessment process is designed to identify the specific challenges your child is facing with their voice. The assessment includes:

1. Voice Evaluation:

Our experienced speech-language pathologists conduct a thorough evaluation of your child's voice, assessing pitch, loudness, quality, and resonance.

2. Videostroboscopy:

In some cases, a videostroboscopy may be recommended to obtain a detailed view of the vocal cords in action. This instrumental assessment allows for a more accurate diagnosis. A videostroboscopy may be conducted at a hospital or outpatient medical center.

3. Respiratory Evaluation:

Given the connection between respiratory conditions and voice disorders, we may conduct a respiratory evaluation to understand any underlying respiratory issues or difficulty with breath support for vocalizing.

4. Case History and Parental Input:

We value your insights into your child's development. Gathering information about your child's vocal habits, exposure to potential irritants, and any concerns you may have provides valuable context for our assessment.

Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM), also called Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD), happens when your vocal folds close when they should open. PVFM happens when the vocal folds close when they should open. When you take a breath, your vocal folds should open to let air through to your lungs. When an individual has VCD, their vocal folds partially or fully close when they should be open, resulting in difficulty breathing.

PVFM can cause difficulty breathing. Many with PVFM are diagnosed with asthma, however, PVFM is not asthma. It is a disorder that affects how and when vocal folds move. Symptoms may include:
• Coughing
• Rough-sounding voice
• Difficulty breathing air in
• Noisy breathing
• A feeling of tightness in the throat
• Lightheadedness
• Sudden loss of voice

The exact cause of PVFM is still unknown, however research indicates that it may be triggered by:

• Acid reflux
• Exercise
• Breathing in cold air
• Prolonged speaking
• Emotional stress
• Smoke
• Pollen

Once the assessment is complete, we work collaboratively with you to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your child's unique needs. Our evidence-based approach to speech therapy for pediatric voice disorders includes:

1. Vocal Hygiene Education:

Teaching children proper vocal hygiene habits is crucial for preventing and managing voice disorders. This may include educating them on the importance of hydration, avoiding vocal misuse, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

2. Voice Therapy Exercises:

Tailored exercises are designed to improve vocal cord strength, flexibility, and coordination. These exercises aim to address specific challenges identified during the assessment.

3. Resonance Therapy:

For children with resonance issues, therapy focuses on achieving a balanced and resonant voice. This may involve exercises to enhance nasal resonance or modify vocal tract shape.

4. Breathing Exercises:

Since respiratory issues can impact voice quality, breathing exercises may be incorporated to improve overall respiratory function.

5. Behavioral Intervention:

Addressing any underlying behavioral factors contributing to voice disorders is crucial. Our therapists work with families to establish healthy vocal habits and promote vocal well-being.

6. Parental Involvement:

We believe in the importance of involving parents in the therapy process. Our therapists provide guidance and strategies that parents can implement at home to reinforce therapy goals.

Regular progress monitoring is a crucial aspect of our approach. We assess your child's development and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan to ensure continued progress. We also maintain open communication with parents, providing guidance on strategies for home practice.

Early intervention is crucial when it comes to pediatric voice disorders, as addressing concerns in the initial stages can significantly impact a child's communication development. Voice disorders in children may manifest as changes in pitch, hoarseness, or difficulty sustaining clear vocalizations. Seeking help early allows for a comprehensive evaluation by our speech-language pathologists, leading to a tailored intervention plan. Early intervention not only addresses the immediate vocal challenges but also helps prevent potential long-term issues that may arise if left untreated. It capitalizes on the adaptability of a child's developing voice, promoting healthier vocal habits and minimizing the risk of negative impacts on communication. By initiating therapy early, parents can actively participate in their child's vocal health, fostering a supportive environment that encourages effective communication and sets the stage for a lifetime of clear and confident expression.

A collaborative approach is essential in addressing pediatric voice disorders, bringing together the expertise of various professionals to comprehensively support a child's vocal health.

Our speech therapists work collaboratively with allergists, pulmonologists, otolaryngologists (ENT doctors), gastroenterologists, neurologists, psychologists, and coaches to ensure a holistic understanding of the underlying factors contributing to a child's voice concerns.

Allergists and pulmonologists can offer insights into respiratory conditions that may impact vocal function, while otolaryngologists specialize in addressing structural issues in the throat. Gastroenterologists may contribute their expertise if issues like reflux affect the vocal cords. Neurologists play a role in evaluating neurological aspects that may influence vocal control. Psychologists can provide support for any psychological factors affecting the child's vocal habits. Coaches, if involved, contribute to healthy vocal practices in activities like singing or public speaking. This collaborative effort ensures a comprehensive assessment and treatment plan, addressing not only the immediate vocal challenges but also contributing to the child's overall well-being and effective communication.