Vocal function exercises for normal voice: With and without semi-occlusion

Abstract

Purpose: This study examined the effect of varying degrees of vocal tract (VT) occlusion used during Vocal Function Exercises (VFEs) on attainment of maximum phonation time (MPT) goals in normal voice. Greater VT occlusion was expected to result in increased MPT. The overarching goal was to determine whether the semi-occluded vocal tract (SOVT) posture used during VFEs could be modified while preserving efficacy.

Method: Twenty-six females ages 18–30 participated in this pre-post longitudinal group study. Participants were randomly assigned to three experimental groups and completed a six-week VFE protocol. The first group performed exercises using the prescribed SOVT posture; the second group used the vowel /o/; group three used the vowel /a/. The primary outcome measure was MPT as performed on the exercise tasks using the assigned vocal tract posture.

Result: MPT significantly improved in the prescribed SOVT group, but did not significantly improve in the modified /o/ and /a/ groups.

Conclusion: The SOVT posture used during VFEs is modifiable to a small extent without significantly undermining efficacy. Changes in MPT are less robust with reduced VT occlusion. Research in a clinical population is warranted.

Keywords:

• semi-occluded vocal tract
• maximum phonation time
• efficacy

Acknowledgements

Authors acknowledge JoAnna Sloggy, MA, CCC-SLP for her contribution in data collection and research assistant training and monitoring. Special thanks to Gilson Capilouto, PhD, CCC-SLP, Director of Undergraduate Research, research assistants Sydney Barnett, Emily Maness Wells, Madeline Peterson, Jordan Spurling and Brett Stricharczuk, as well as to all participants of this study.

Declaration of interest

The authors report no declarations of interest.