I'll try to be brief. What you are going to read is true. It is also minimized by virtually every physician and speech expert with whom you will discuss. But please read on.

I came to find out that I had a "mild" (if there is such a thing) case of SD for over 10 years. My story is much like everyone's -- can't hit certain sounds; visit to speech therapists, ENTs, etc. etc. Discussion of therapy, botox -- nothing works. Very self-conscious about talking to virtually anyone. Trying anything and everything.

Then I read John E. Sarno, M.D.'s book, The Mindbody Prescription. Although it is principally about back pain, it also touches on other ailments, including SD. What impressed me was his very low-key style and matter-of-fact presentation. What really impressed me was that he was treating people who had generally ran out of options (sound familiar?) and had a permanent cure rate of over 80%. Note that these were people who were about to have (or had already) major surgery to try to relieve their pain.

To appreciate his theory, you must read the book more than once. Then read it again a couple of more times. His notion of the reason for most ailments might be difficult to accept, principally because we've been programmed to think everything must have a physical cause (versus caused by the unconscious mind).

Do the things suggested in his book, particularly the steps set forth in Chapter 9, "The Therapeutic Program". It is extremely important that you do what is suggested every day for at least 40 straight days. If you miss a day, start over. I went 55 days before I noticed consistent improvement. (Note that it took me in excess of a year to get over thirty straight days -- sounds easy, but you must really focus on setting aside the time to devote to this effort. What have you got to lose?)

Note that Dr. Sarno has a web site (link deleted by Moderators as per our no-advertising policy - readers can use a search engine or email Mr Guzowski direct if interested) where he sells his lectures on videotape. I found these to be very helpful in my healing process.

Good luck.

I too read his books and purchased his tapes and tried his program several years ago - but at the time I was concerned about neck and shoulder pain. I even spoke with him, and he suggested I purchase the books and tapes, try to do the program myself, and then decide whether or not I needed to see him. I was successful enough to not call him back.

I don't think I was as dedicated as you, however, (I don't recall doing the program for 40 straight days), but I did experience relief of my neck and shoulder pain.

At the time, I had not yet been diagnosed with SD, but I knew something was wrong with my voice. I attributed the strain in my voice to the neck and shoulder tightness. So I hoped his program would address what I percieved to be the "cause" of my problem.

Anyway, I think he is definately on to something, and I respect his work. Maybe I'll go back to those tapes and the program.

Thanks for reminding me of this!