Spring Mechanisms in the Human Larynx

Abstract

Laryngeal movements are usually considered to be active in both phases of behavior cycles such as phonation, straining effort and swallowing. X-ray, electromyographic and cinematographic evidence is presented suggesting that these cycles begin with an active phase of muscular contraction and end with a partly passive phase of elastic restitution. Elastic restitution may be a significant factor in the organization of laryngeal actions in general.