Vibro-tactile Stimulation for Spasmodic Dysphonia

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Phase 2

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: University of Minnesota

No Placebo Group

Prior Safety Data

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The general aim of the research is to provide scientific evidence that vibro-tactile stimulation (VTS) represents a non-invasive form of neuromodulation that can induce measurable improvements in the speech of patients with laryngeal dystonia (LD) - also called spasmodic dysphonia (SD).

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for adults over 18 with a confirmed diagnosis of adductor or abductor spasmodic dysphonia (a voice disorder) for at least 6 months. It's not suitable for those with cognitive issues, regular benzodiazepine users, pregnant individuals, non-English speakers, or people with certain neurological conditions affecting speech.

Inclusion Criteria

I have been diagnosed with laryngeal dystonia for at least 6 months.

I am 18 years old or older.

Exclusion Criteria

Pregnant people.

I regularly take benzodiazepines.

I have a condition affecting my ability to speak due to muscle or nerve issues.

+2 more

Participant Groups

The study tests whether vibro-tactile stimulation (VTS), a non-invasive treatment that uses vibrations on the throat area, can improve speech in patients suffering from laryngeal dystonia or spasmodic dysphonia.

4Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Low dose / speech activated VTSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Low dose refers to receiving VTS 5 times/week for 20 minutes each; VTS during connected speech

Group II: Low dose / continuous VTSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

Low dose refers to receiving VTS 5 times/week for 20 minutes each; non-task-specific, constant stimulation during non-speech

Group III: High dose / speech activated VTSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

High dose refers to receiving VTS 7 times/week for 20 minutes each; VTS during connected speech

Group IV: High dose / continuous VTSExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

High dose refers to receiving VTS 7 times/week for 20 minutes each; non-task-specific, constant stimulation during non-speech