Breathing battle: biofeedback vs. retraining for vocal cord trouble

NCT ID NCT05770518

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tested two non-drug treatments for paradoxical vocal fold motion (PVFM), a condition where vocal cords close when they should open, causing shortness of breath. Fifty-one adults were randomly assigned to either biofeedback (watching their breathing on a screen) or laryngeal control therapy (learning relaxation and breathing techniques). Researchers measured symptom changes using a breathing difficulty questionnaire to see which approach works better.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

biofeedback and laryngeal control therapy

What this could lead to

If this works, it could point toward a more effective, non-drug treatment for breathing difficulties caused by vocal cord dysfunction.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study with only 51 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatments are behavioral and may not work for all patients.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Cough Dyspnea laryngeal abductor paralysis laryngeal adductor paralysis Respiratory Sounds spasmodic dystonia Vocal Cord Dysfunction

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Washington University

    St Louis, Missouri, 63110, United States