What is a vocal fold paralysis?
Frequently asked questions about vocal fold palsy
What is a vocal fold paralysis?
Vocal fold paralysis occurs when one or both vocal folds fail to open or close properly. Most cases affect only one fold, while bilateral paralysis is rare and serious.
The vocal folds, located in the larynx above the windpipe, vibrate as air passes through to produce voice. If a fold is paralysed, air escapes, resulting in a weak, breathy, or hoarse voice.
What Causes Vocal Fold Paralysis?
Common causes include:
Viral infections (most common)
Nerve damage during surgery (thyroid, chest, or neck procedures)
Trauma or injury
Cancers affecting vocal nerves
Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke
Idiopathic cases (unknown cause)
Early diagnosis is important for effective treatment.
What are the symptoms of a Vocal Fold Paralysis?
Typical symptoms include:
Hoarse, weak, or breathy voice
Difficulty projecting your voice
Vocal fatigue
Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) — a specialist swallowing assessment may be also required
Shortness of breath with exertion
What are the treatment Options in the UK for a vocal fold paralysis?
Voice Therapy is often recommended to:
Strengthen the voice by increasing the movement of the paralysed vocal fold
Improve clarity and projection
Restore normal breathing patterns
Reduce fatigue and strain
Surgery is rarely needed, only in severe or persistent cases.
Private therapy is available for faster access or if NHS services have long waiting times. Online Voice Therapy is also highly effective and accessible throughout the UK.
How long does Voice Therapy take for vocal fold paralysis?
Duration varies depending on severity. Many clients see significant improvements in 6-8 weeks with consistent therapy.
Can online Voice Therapy help for a vocal fold palsy?
Yes. Remote therapy is as effective as face to face therapy and allows patients across the UK to access specialist clinical voice therapy.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Our private voice therapists are accredited in:
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
GOOGLE REVIEWS FOR THE SPEECH NETWORK VOICE TEAM
*****
These voice sessions with Janet were life changing. I had hit a crossroads where teaching full time on zoom gave me such vocal strain I could not speak. Now I am back to teaching, albeit with a little lighter schedule, and have a new way to work with my voice that is healthy and working! - Sarah.
*****
‘I worked with Janet following post-surgery voice damage and subsequent vocal difficulties. She is great, with a kind, empathetic and friendly approach. I really appreciated the understanding she gave me about how my vocal cords (should) work, and how to manage symptoms and look after my voice, improving my confidence along the way. I very much enjoyed our sessions and would highly recommend her’ Phillipa
Book a free 15-minute consultation or email thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com for information on private Voice Therapy fees.
Our Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.