Comparison of laryngeal palpatory scale (LPS), with surface electromyographic measures in patients with muscle tension dysphonia

Abstract

OBJECTIVES : The aim of this study was to examine the laryngeal palpatory scale (LPS) to ascertain possible correlation with neck surface electromyography (sEMG). METHODS : Two otolaryngologists and one certified speech-language pathologist assessed 21 participants (seven women and 14 men; with a mean age of 42.8 years; ranged: 21 to 70 years) with muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) diagnosed with the current version of the LPS rating system. Consequently, relationships between LPS and objective measures of sEMG were evaluated using Spearman's rank correlation coefficient (r). RESULTS : The results show that there was a low to moderate between correlations, (statistically positive and significant in 10 correlations among the examined items/states). CONCLUSIONS : In conclusion, low-moderate positive correlations between sEMG and LPS ratings were found with particular strength for LPS ratings of tightness and ratings made during dynamic tasks. Further investigations can provide useful evidence for researchers and clinicians to document treatment outcomes by using LPS and sEMG in patients with MTD and leading to the more standardized care and improved information about patient progress.