The term muscle tension pattern (MTP) refers to an abnormal speaking pattern resulting in the improper use of the muscles of the voice box. MTP may be the primary problem causing the voice disorder (often called muscle tension dysphonia or MTD) or it may be present as a result of another problem. In the latter case, the MTP usually represents the body's attempt to compensate for an underlying abnormality. It is important for the physician to distinguish between a primary and a compensatory MTP. This will help determine treatment.
There are several different varieties and severities of muscle tension patterns. The type and severity of MTP, however, does not reflect on the prognosis of the voice disorder. Some of the most severe forms of MTP may be the easiest to resolve.
As mentioned earlier, proper diagnosis is the key to determining treatment. If the MTP is the primary cause of the voice disorder, the elimination of the MTP by speech therapy should improve the voice. However, if the MTP represents the body’s attempt at correcting the underlying disorder, then elimination of the MTP by speech therapy will not improve the voice, and in fact, may lead to a worse voice. Improper diagnosis is one of the leading reasons why patients do not improve, even with aggressive speech therapy. In such patients, diagnosing and treating the underlying voice disorder will not only improve the voice, but will eliminate the MTP.
