Understanding voice problems caused by muscle tension
Official title: Sensory Mechanisms in Primary Muscle Tension Dysphonia
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10931645 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into primary muscle tension dysphonia, a voice problem that many people have, to understand how it affects muscle function and sensations, so we can find better ways to help those who struggle with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $472,448 |
| NIH project number | 5R01DC021447-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931645 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of primary muscle tension dysphonia, such as vocal fatigue and discomfort while speaking.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with voice disorders caused by structural or neurological abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates primary muscle tension dysphonia (pMTD), a voice disorder affecting millions of people in the U.S. The study aims to explore the underlying sensory mechanisms and muscle function related to this condition, which can lead to vocal fatigue and discomfort. By using validated physiological metrics, researchers will assess the experiences of patients with pMTD compared to healthy individuals. The goal is to better understand the causes of this disorder and improve treatment options for those affected.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnosis and treatment strategies for individuals suffering from voice disorders related to muscle tension.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been studies on voice disorders, this research aims to explore a less understood area of muscle tension dysphonia, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shembel, Adrianna — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Shembel, Adrianna
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.