Rehabilitation in systemic sclerosis (SSc) by vocal intervention (VI)

Background: Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a systemic connective tissue disease with physical and mental disturbances. Based on a pilot study, we aim to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of the novel, self-developed concept of vocal intervention (VI) in SSc. Preliminary data will be presented.Objective: Functional improvement of respiration and mouth-opening, enhancement of QoL, and reduction of stress under vocal pedagogical guidance and music therapy.Methods: Exercises for relaxation, breathing, and for pronunciation/vocalisation, completed by vocal improvisation. Sessions are carried out by a music therapist and singer with pedagogical formation. Evaluation as follows: pulmonary and functional testing, salivary cortisol/IgA level, logopedic assessment, health survey SF-36.Results: Improved parameters of the pilot study (n = 1), i.e. mouth-opening, two sections in SF-36 survey, s/z-ratio, point to the practicability of this new concept. Long-term effects have to be investigated.Conclusions: The conc

Audiology · Intervention (counseling · Music therapy · Physical medicine and rehabilitation · Physical therapy · Pronunciation · Psychotherapist · Quality of life (healthcare · Speech therapy · Medicine · Psychology · Respiratory and Cough-Related Research · Voice and Speech Disorders · Rehabilitation