Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Singer's Voice

Launched by UNIVERSIDADE FEDERAL DE PERNAMBUCO · Sep 21, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

Researchers are testing whether a gentle brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), used together with specific vocal exercises, can affect how singers' voices perform. In a randomized, triple-blind trial, participants are assigned to one of three groups: tDCS over the primary motor cortex with vocal exercises, tDCS over the cerebellum with vocal exercises, or a sham (placebo) stimulation with vocal exercises. All groups complete 10 sessions (on weekdays, not weekends) that last about 20 minutes of tDCS plus 20 minutes of guided vocal practice using a flexible tube in water. They are evaluated before starting, on day 5, on day 10, and about one month later. The main measure is the Vocal Range Profile, with secondary checks of vocal quality, how the larynx coordinates during speech and singing, and how much effort participants feel they are using.

Who can join: adults aged 18 to 45 who are singers with healthy voices but who do not have formal singing training, and who are non-smokers with no current throat, airway, or breathing problems. People with metal implants in the neck or a history of seizures are not eligible. The study is being conducted in Recife, Brazil at the Universidade Federal de Pernambuco, led by Dr. Katia Monte-Silva. Participation involves some mild possible side effects from tDCS (like tingling or itching) and potential discomfort during the throat exam or vocal tasks, but safety monitoring is in place. The trial is designed so participants, clinicians, and those measuring outcomes don’t know which group a person is in. Results are not yet available, but the study aims to share findings after completion.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Vocally healthy singers without formal singing education
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Participants will be excluded from the sample if they were smokers, had abnormalities in previous otorhinolaryngological examination, or exhibited signs and symptoms of laryngeal, pharyngeal, or respiratory diseases at the time of collection. Volunteers who regularly used neuroactive medications, had metallic implants in the cervical region or above, or had any history of seizures or epilepsy will also be excluded.