Type I functional dysphonia

Also known as isometric laryngeal disorder, this is one of the most common voice disorders.

Characterized by a generalized contraction of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles, it results in reduced glottic separation and a posterior closure defect during adduction.

The latter is the most characteristic aspect of this type of dysphonia and may present with (or without) hyperemia and/or edema.

The posterior cricoarytenoid muscle contains more type I fibers than the other intrinsic laryngeal muscles, and when in hyperfunction, it may cause a deviation of the arytenoid that sinks into the cricoarytenoid joint, opening the posterior commissure and creating a glottic gap.

Isometric contraction develops a pathogenic mechanism in which the closure defect produces a slightly breathy voice. To avoid this, a compensatory mechanism is triggered, resulting in greater laryngeal contraction. This increases pressure in the anterior third, encouraging the onset of inflamed areas that could even lead to the formation of a minor associated lesion.

Other signs of this type of hyperfunction include a prominent jaw, excessive laryngeal elevation, intense glottic attack, and difficulty completing phonation with sufficient expiratory airflow.

Patients with this type of dysphonia are usually individuals with high vocal demands but inadequate vocal technique. Psychologically, they are often anxious individuals.

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Valentina Carlile - Osteopath specializing in Osteopathy for Voice and Speech Disorders since 2002. For information and bookings, visit the Contact page.

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