Aerosmith’s announcement during their tour that the band will retire after an impressive five-decade career has brought attention to the lesser-known health issue facing frontman Steven Tyler.
On Friday, the band revealed on their website and X account that Tyler’s persistent vocal problems prompted their “heartbreaking” decision to cease touring.
“As you may know, Steven’s voice is a unique instrument,” the statement emphasized.
AEROSMITH ANNOUNCES TOUR RETIREMENT, STEVEN TYLER’S VOICE WON’T FULLY ‘RECOVER’: ‘DEVASTATING’
“He has dedicated months to trying to restore his voice to its previous state. Despite having top medical professionals assisting him, we’ve witnessed him struggling.”
“Regrettably, it has become evident that a complete recovery from his vocal injury is unattainable. Thus, we’ve made a tough yet essential decision—united as a band—to step away from the tour life.”
Steven Tyler, left, has suffered vocal damage resulting in the cancellation of Aerosmith’s farewell tour. (Getty Images; iStock)
Before the cancellation, a few dates of their “Peace Out” farewell tour had been postponed after Tyler injured his vocal cords during a September 10 show, as per reports.
“I’m devastated to announce that my doctors have strictly ordered me not to sing for the next 30 days,” Tyler, 75, wrote on Instagram.
STIFF PERSON SYNDROME PATIENTS SHARE INSIGHTS ON LIVING WITH THIS RARE CONDITION
“I acquired vocal cord damage during Saturday’s performance that resulted in subsequent bleeding. We must reschedule a few shows to ensure we return with the performance you truly deserve.”
“Regrettably, it is evident that a complete recovery from his vocal injury is not achievable.”
Later that September, the band shared on Facebook that Tyler’s injury was “more severe than initially believed.”
“His physician has confirmed that, in addition to the harm to his vocal cords, he fractured his larynx, requiring continued medical attention.”
What is a laryngeal fracture?
The larynx, often referred to as the voice box, is a tubular structure located centrally in the neck, above the trachea (windpipe) and esophagus, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Part of the respiratory system, it plays a crucial role in preventing food from entering the windpipe during breathing.
The larynx is vital for both breathing and producing vocal sounds, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic.
On Friday, the band revealed on their website and X account that Tyler’s ongoing vocal challenges led them to the “heartbreaking” decision to stop performing. (Getty Images)
A laryngeal fracture, which Tyler has suffered from, is uncommon but can happen when a blunt force is applied to the voice box, according to Dr. Joel E. Portnoy, a laryngologist and otolaryngologist based at ENT and Allergy Associates in Lake Success, New York.
UNDERSTANDING FRONTOTEMPORAL DEMENTIA, A DIAGNOSIS RECEIVED BY BRUCE WILLIS
“After around age 30, the cartilage of the larynx transitions into bone, which is more fragile and can be prone to fractures,” Portnoy informed Fox News Digital via email.
“Injuries that extend internally can be life-threatening and may require emergency surgical intervention.”
A laryngeal fracture is uncommon, but can occur due to a blunt force applied to the voice box, as noted by a medical professional. (iStock)
Individuals suffering trauma to the larynx typically report symptoms such as hoarseness, neck discomfort, difficulty breathing, loss of voice, and pain during speech or swallowing, according to Medscape.
For a singer, experiencing a laryngeal fracture can have “devastating outcomes,” Portnoy stated.
“At best, internal swelling can cause temporary hoarseness, but in rare cases, the damage can be irreversible, permanently affecting the ability to sing or speak,” he added.
CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD THE FOX NEWS APP
“Fortunately, most laryngeal fractures are minor and typically improve with voice rest, humidity, careful monitoring, and sometimes steroids for treatment,” the doctor noted.
Severe cases may occasionally require surgical repair.
In general, a majority of vocal injuries stem from localized tissue trauma, such as vocal fold hemorrhage (bleeding beneath the surface) or mucosal tears (similar to surface scrapes on the vocal folds), according to Portnoy.
For singers and those who depend on their voices professionally, prompt diagnosis and appropriate management are crucial, advised a physician. (iStock)
“These incidents normally resolve with utter voice rest, sufficient humidity, and time,” he stated.
For vocalists and professionals relying on their voices, timely diagnosis and treatment are of utmost importance, Portnoy emphasized.
“Preventing vocal injuries generally involves warm-ups, maintaining humidity, staying hydrated, and utilizing effective vocal techniques,” he stated.
CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO OUR HEALTH NEWSLETTER
“We always promote listening to your body—if you notice any voice changes or feel fatigue, strain, or pain, it is typically time to minimize voice use.”
Aerosmith is not the only band to recently announce a tour cancellation due to health issues.
“If you notice any changes in your voice, fatigue, strain, or pain, it is typically time to minimize voice use.”
Last month, Eddie Vedder and Pearl Jam canceled several shows on the European leg of their Dark Matter World Tour due to ongoing “illness” within the band.
In June, Neil Young, 78, and his band Crazy Horse stated they would take an “unplanned break” due to illness affecting various band members.
For more Health articles, visit www.foxnews/health
Also in June, country star Mark Chesnutt canceled his tour as he recuperated from emergency quadruple bypass surgery.
Reporting contributed by Janelle Ash, Tracy Wright, and Christina Dugan Ramirez of Fox News Digital.
