Treatment of Vocal Abuse Disorders Using a Vocal Intensity Controller

Abstract
A portable voice intensity controller (VIC) was used in a treatment program for patients with dysphonia related to vocal cord lesions and to laryngeal hypertension. The device, worn in daily speaking situations, provided auditory feedback contingent on excessive vocal intensity. Consequently, a soft vocal level was automatically maintained even in the presence of high-level environmental noise. The device proved to be an aid to vocal rehabilitation for the 32 patients who were studied.