American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance - AAHPERD

 Issue: October 2007

Vocal Health for Physical Educators
Josh Trout & Douglas McColl

Abstract:
Evidence suggests that teachers are often at risk for vocal disease and are more likely to change occupations because of their voice problems compared to nonteachers. Physical educators are especially at risk for voice problems due to the intense daily demands of voice projection. Chronic abuse can cause swelling and inflammation of the thyroarytenoid musculature. When the voice becomes hoarse and weak, the teacher may overcompensate by pushing the vocal mechanism even harder, which leads to the voice becoming worse over time. This cycle can cause vocal nodules to develop, requiring speech-language therapy or even surgery. Fortunately, vocal disease is often preventable. This article discusses various types of voice amplification devices that allow the voice to be amplified while speaking at a normal volume. Whistle combinations, hand signals, arm gestures, and other strategies can also minimize the need for voice projection.

Article category: Professional Issues