At the Voice Center there are both otolaryngologists (Ear, Nose and Throat physicians) and speech-language pathologists who can work with individuals to improve their vocal skills.
Good communication skills are essential for success in professional careers, for career advancement and to build a solid self-image. There are many factors which can impede effective communication including: an inability to project the voice, a medical voice disorder, a stuttering disorder, or an unpleasant vocal quality. Before an individual can work on improving the voice, the speech-language pathologist must evaluate and identify the problem. Our speech-language pathologists conduct a variety of diagnostic tests including digital audio recording, acoustic analysis, and analysis of voice production. In addition, videolaryngostroboscopy is performed at our center and provides a detailed evaluation of the structure and functioning of the voice box and the vocal cords. A special light source provides a simulated high-speed, stop action view of the vocal folds and allows for detailed examination. Information obtained from this exam aids in the diagnosis and treatment of voice disorders.
University of Chicago Hospital
5758 South Maryland Ave.
Chicago, IL 60637
For Appointments 773-702-1865
Specialist Faculty
Speech language pathologist Daniel E. Martin, Ph.D., CCC-SLP serves as voice pathology director of the Voice Center. Dr. Martin is an Associate Professor of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. With over thirty years of clinical experience in voice disorders, he has previously directed professional voice centers at Lakeshore Ear, Nose and Throat Center, St. Clair Shores in Michigan, and at The Medical College of Ohio in Toledo. He also has a background in music and has served as voice pathology consultant to the Michigan Opera Theatre and the Toledo Opera.
Voice Problems
Professionals who rely heavily on their voices -- lawyers, commodities traders, receptionists, teachers, or sales persons -- often have trouble with their voice as a result of voice overuse or abuse. Most of these people have seen an otolaryngologist who recommends voice therapy.
Another cause for voice problems is a neurological disorder or an injury. For example, a person may have had a neck injury which caused paralysis of his/her vocal cord and as a result he/she has a very weak voice. A person may be suffering from a neurological condition known as spasmodic dysphonia which affects the muscles of the voice box, leaving the person with a strained, strangled, choked vocal quality. Our Ear, Nose and Throat physicians are specially trained in the treatment of this disorder which involves injecting Botox into the vocal muscles.
Voice therapy focuses on teaching the individuals to use their voice correctly without straining or tension. Individulas need to achieve proper breath support, pitch, resonance and relaxation for optimal vocal quality. Voice therapy sessions are conducted by certified and licensed speech-language pathologists. Sessions are usually held once a week for an hour.
