It has been recommended that I first spend some time with a speech therapist, while also considering the idea of having a Botox injection treatment. As all of this is so new to me, I am looking for advice/direction on the best way to look at these tretment options and experineces which people have had with them in the past.

I have learned quite a bit from reading many past messages on the Bulletin Board and am even more curious as to what comments are out there for the "new" kid on the block!

Thanks for any input you may have!

The suggestion that you carry out some speech therapy first is commonly made to new patients. It often helps unload compensatory speaking habits you may have developed in order to deal with your SD. Sometimes even expert doctors can be slightly unsure of the diagnosis and recommend speech therapy in case the patient actually has 'muscle tension dysphonia' or MTD. MTD is a functional voice disorder and does respond to speech therapy quite well - in contrast SD is a neurological movement disorder (dystonia affecting the larynx) and speech therapy is of limited benefit in most cases.

If you have ADductor SD then Botox injections are currently considered to be the treatment of choice.

Good luck, and let us know how you get on.

I was born in Massachusetts but have lived in Utah for 30 years. I have been receiving Botox injections for ADSD for the past 10 years. I receive them around 5 times per year. My health insurance covers the cost of the Hospital Clinic, the Doctor, and the Botox. I used to teach alot at the college level and for my employer, but have given that up as you can never commit to speak a month or so in advance. Some things that may help you that have helped me are: use a wireless microphone if you can, that will keep you from straining your voice. I also use a phone that amplifies my outgoing voice.