WE CAN HELPAthletes who experience trouble breathing, coughing, wheezing or hoarseness during performance may be experiencing vocal cord dysfunction (paradoxical vocal cord dysfunction). Often misdiagnosed as asthma, this condition is not helped by steroids typically prescribed.
The condition is familiar to speech-language pathologists and otolaryngologists yet remains poorly understood in the sports medicine community. Treatment strategies are even less understood. |
Currently, the only treatment available is a therapeutic exercise program designed to promote diaphragmatic breathing which may allow an athlete to gain control during episodes of dysphonia.
At Boulder Voice Therapy we have developed patent pending exercises that compliment the traditional "diaphragmatic breathing" treatment. The exercises strengthen weak muscles and release others so as to encourage laryngeal relaxation and flexibility. |