Investigation the effectiveness of straw phonation exercise in adults with vocal fold nodules

In this study, the aim was to determine which therapy implementation is effective to adult women with vocal fold nodules. Implementations were designed as "Vocal Function Exercise + Straw Phonation Exercise" (experiment group) and only "Vocal Funtion Exercise" (control group). Twelve women participants were randomly and equally assigned to one of two groups. Therapy sessions performed once a week and six sessions in total. Vocal hygiene, breath exercise and vocal function exercise explained and practiced in both groups. Additionally straw phonation exercise was practised with one of two groups. The duration of maximum phonation, s/z ratio were measured before and after therapy sessions. Also the data of acoustic measurements, Voice Handicap Index, GRBAS scale and Voice Related Quality of Life Scale were collected before and after therapies. Statistical analysis was carried out to compare outcomes within pre and post test and between therapy groups. According to statistical analysis of within groups; G, R, B and S features of GRBAS, shimmer and SPI parameters and VHI scores of experiment and G, B, A and S, jitter parameter, VHI and V-RQOL scores of control group were found better at post test. There is no difference at maximum phonation duration and s/z ratio. Maximum phonation duration and breathiness' difference data were found better at experiment group at between groups analyses. There were no difference at VHI and V-RQOL scores, acoustic parameters, s/z ratio and G, R, A and S features. Auditory – perceptual and self assessment of voice demonstrate that straw phonation exercise is effective and provides improvements in voice. Moreover, participants who practiced straw phonation exercise indicated that they produce more relaxed and easy phonation. Keyword: Straw phonation exercise, Vocal function exercises, Voice therapy, Vocal fold nodules, Effectiveness