Case report – Dysphonia and Vocal Cord Paralysis

Abstract

Vocal cord paralysis occurs when one or both of the bands of muscle inside the voice box (larynx), known as vocal cords or vocal folds, fail to move as they should. These muscles are situated atop the windpipe (trachea). When there is an alteration in normal voice quality, dysphonia can occur, and this may be attributed to structural and/or functional causes. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) theory, there is a close connection between the function of the lungs and the throat, as well as the ability to speak. In order to function optimally, the throat and lungs, like other parts of our body, rely on nourishment from Qi and blood. Insufficient circulation or depletion of blood and Qi to the lungs and throat can adversely impact their roles in speaking, breathing, and swallowing. In this article is presented a case of 37 years old woman with vocal cord paralysis due to surgery papillary type of thyroid cancer. Тhe patient was operated in January 2023, she came to the acupuncture center and started the therapies in August 2023 and has done 13 therapies until now. She had a significant improvement after the 10th therapy, her tone of voice finally returned, just had a little difficulty breathing. Acupuncture, as a part of TCM, is an effective treatment and can directly help the localized area to improve on the circulation of blood and Qi.

Keywords: acupuncture, TCM, vocal cord, paralysis, dysphonia.