{Reference Type}: Journal Article
{Title}: Clinical Characteristics of Individuals Presenting to Physiotherapy for Voice and Throat Care: A Retrospective Case Notes Review.
{Author}: Hockey K;Kennedy E;
{Journal}: J Voice
{Volume}: 0
{Issue}: 0
{Year}: 2024 Feb 29
{Factor}: 2.3
{DOI}: 10.1016/j.jvoice.2024.01.007
{Abstract}: BACKGROUND: Currently, little is known about the characteristics of individuals presenting for physiotherapy care with voice and throat problems.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study is to describe the demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals presenting to physiotherapy for voice and throat-related problems, and to use this information to clarify the role of physiotherapy in the management of people with voice and throat problems.
METHODS: A retrospective clinical case notes review was conducted of all clients who accessed physiotherapy for voice and throat problems at a private practice based in Christchurch within a 12-month period from 1st October 2020 to 1st October 2021.
RESULTS: Data were analyzed from 53 patient charts. The typical profile of an individual accessing physiotherapy for voice and throat problems were female (n = 37), NZ European (n = 26), singer (n = 43), with chronic problems (n = 20), of a nontraumatic origin (n = 45). Voice problems were present in 39 cases and muscle-related problems were present in 42 cases. Treatment primarily included manual therapy and various modes of exercise therapy.
CONCLUSIONS: The clinical characteristics described offer insight into the demographic and clinical characteristics of individuals accessing physiotherapy services for voice and throat problems. A high prevalence of muscle-related problems and wider issues were identified, consistent with the physiotherapy skill set. Physiotherapy appears to complement existing ENT or SLT services by identifying and managing muscle-related voice problems and addressing wider factors contributing to voice and throat problems.