Adductor spasmodic dysphonia: a case for speech and language therapy
Author: Sue Addlestone
Magazine issue: Spring 10
Page numbers: 12-14
Date: 28 February 2010
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Adductor spasmodic dysphonia is a dystonia of the larynx which leads to abnormal patterns of phonation. Whether its cause is neurological and / or emotional remains the subject of debate. In the Spring 09 issue of Speech & Language Therapy in Practice, Kendrea Focht and Paula Leslie found sufficient evidence in favour of Botox to conclude that it should be offered to clients with adductor spasmodic dysphonia. Sue Addlestone presents a robust case, supported by the literature and with the help of her client Matt, for speech and language therapy that combines direct voice work with psychological therapy. Matt received six sessions of therapy over a period of three months with two review phone calls before he was discharged as feeling “back in control” of his voice and life.
