TREATMENT METHODS

Treatment for PVCD should include the following items:

    1. Inform the client on the disorder
         It is important to inform the client of the results obtained during the evaluation.  To help the client better understand the information,
it may be helpful to show the client videotapes of their vocal fold
movements or include other visual aids.  The better the client
understands the disorder, the more likely they are to follow through
with the treatment recommendations.  Due to a common relationship
between PVCD and associated psychiatric conditions, discussion of
treatment methods must be handled with compassion. It is important
not to tell the patient that the problem is "all in their head," because
 they may be more reluctant not to follow the treatment
recommendations and in turn get a second opinion and resist speech
therapy and psychotherapy (Pinho, Domingos, Sennes, & Menezes).

    2. Speech Therapy(for more information click here)
      Speech therapy for individuals with PVCD consists of a specific seven-step program developed by a group of researchers led by R.J. Martin.  Pitch change, diaphragmatic breathing, and extrinsic muscle tension  reduction are aspects targeted in this program(Gallivan, Hoffman, & Gallivan).

    3. Relaxation Techniques
           Relaxation techniques help the client reduce the amount of tension in the larynx.  They also help the client to focus on their breathing when they start to feel tension in the neck indicating a possible attack.

    4. Psychiatric Therapy
      Psychiatric therapy is an important factor in the treatment process
of PVCD, because without eliminating the causation factor it is unlikely the individual will obtain a full recovery.  Psychiatric therapy usually includes relaxation exercises and supportive therapy that focuses on alleviating a patient's fears, fantasies, or other issues(Gallivan, Hoffman, & Gallivan).

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