Laryngeal Massage

Calling all voice fans! As discussed in a previous article, Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) is a voice disorder characterized by excessive tension in the intrinsic and extrinsic laryngeal muscles, leading to vocal strain, hoarseness, and discomfort during phonation. This article will discuss an effective technique to combat MTD: Laryngeal Massage.

Laryngeal massage, also known as vocal massage, is a therapeutic technique used to alleviate muscle tension and improve vocal function in individuals with MTD. It involves applying manual pressure and manipulation to the laryngeal and paralaryngeal muscles, including the sternocleidomastoid, suprahyoid, and infrahyoid muscles.

Laryngeal Massage Techniques

There are several techniques used in laryngeal massage, including:

1. Circumlaryngeal Massage: This involves applying gentle pressure and circular motions around the laryngeal cartilages, such as the thyroid and cricoid cartilages, to release muscle tension.

2. Trigger Point Therapy: This technique targets specific trigger points or areas of increased muscle tension, applying sustained pressure to release the tension and promote relaxation.

3. Myofascial Release: This involves applying gentle, sustained pressure to the fascia surrounding the laryngeal muscles, promoting relaxation and improved mobility.

4. Laryngeal Manual Therapy: This technique involves applying downward pressure on the superior border of the thyroid cartilage, followed by circumlaryngeal massage, to reduce laryngeal elevation and tension.

Benefits of Laryngeal Massage

Laryngeal massage has been shown to provide several benefits for individuals with MTD, including:

1. Reduced muscle tension and pain in the laryngeal and paralaryngeal muscles [1] [2] [5] [8] [11].

2. Improved vocal quality, including reduced hoarseness, breathiness, and strain [1] [5] [8] [17].

3. Increased vocal range and flexibility [5] [8].

4. Decreased vocal effort and fatigue [1] [5] [8].

5. Improved coordination and control of the laryngeal muscles [2] [7].

Laryngeal massage is often used in conjunction with other voice therapy techniques, such as vocal hygiene education, resonant voice therapy, and vocal function exercises, to achieve optimal results in the management of MTD [9].

How to Perform Laryngeal Massage

While it is recommended to seek guidance from a qualified Speech-Language Pathologist with experience in voice therapy, here are some general steps for performing laryngeal massage:

1. Locate the thyroid cartilage (Adam's apple) and the surrounding laryngeal muscles.

2. Apply gentle, circular motions with the pads of your fingers around the thyroid cartilage and surrounding muscles.

3. Apply sustained pressure to any trigger points or areas of increased tension.

4. Gently massage the sternocleidomastoid and suprahyoid muscles, which attach to the laryngeal cartilages.

5. Repeat the massage for several minutes, focusing on increased tension or discomfort areas.

It is essential to seek guidance from a qualified professional, as improper technique or excessive pressure can exacerbate symptoms or cause injury.

In summary, laryngeal massage is a valuable therapeutic technique for individuals with muscle tension dysphonia. It helps reduce muscle tension, improve vocal quality, and promote overall vocal function and comfort during phonation.

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