Vocal Injury

Camille i injured my larynx and throat during belting training and whistle training. And now it hurts to speak or sing and there's a total disconnect. My throat squeezes instead of other muscles. I think i got Dysphonia. My larynx is healing cause i don't feel a lump anymore. But i have had to rest for several days. Never knew how much mix belting and whistle register could hurt me. What do i do next. How can i stop using my throat muscles. Im trying but its like my brain isn't comprehending. Im scared because i hope i haven't hurt myself beyond repair. Also i don't wanna get a private session but i wanna show you my progress. Is there a way for me to send you a video of me singing ro show you my progress? Insta or email?

Hi, Raequon! I'm so sorry to hear that. Please note that I'm not a doctor or speech therapist, and my best advice is to reach out to your doctor and tell them about your symptoms to see if they recommend coming in. 

To my knowledge, going on vocal rest is likely the safest course of action, and you may need weeks of vocal rest to fully bring the swelling down. When we're injured, our voice isn't in balance, so it makes sense that your throat is squeezing to "help". 

Here's an article describing some common conditions and tips for vocal health: https://www.30daysinger.com/blog/vocal-nodules-preventing-injuries. 

Thanx camille, i spend 3 hours plus working on my vocals. I do warm ups, sorprano exercises and or head voice exercises, then i do belting and song work then I'll sing during the day. Now i know my voice is crying out for help. How long should i do vocal exercises a day?

I can't give you an exact time, since it's possible to sing for a few hours healthily, without pushing, and avoiding or limiting overly taxing things (like belting or singing at the extremes of your range). 

The key moving forward will be learning to listen to your voice and being very sensitive to how it feels. If you're 15 minutes into practicing and your voice feels heavy, tired, strained, or hoarse, the best thing you can do is take a break. And when you're starting to feel good again, focus first on light coordination (quiet, but not breathy) on gentle, semi-closed exercises. 

Thanx camile

You're welcome!