Voice Box Resonation

An Integrated Approach in the Management of Hypopharyngeal Dysfunction

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Course Format

Prior attendance of Postural Respiration and Cervical Revolution is required. *Exceptions for Myologists, Speech Pathologists, Voice Coaches.

Course Description

Vocal fold vibration, or oscillation, is the source for our sound, identity, pressure gradient (pulmonary, acoustic, and thoraco-abdominal) and communication (vocal expression). This course will outline vocalization and associated extrinsic postural voice muscle function considerations, when using PRI methodology, to enhance alignment and arrangement of muscle and soft tissue of the hypopharyngeal regions. Recognizing malalignment patterns of paired aligned muscles of the mouth and neck will assist in developing programs for vocal resonance that reflects cervical neutrality and a relaxed hypopharynx. An overview on muscles that position the vocal folds in the midline, on how asymmetry of the neck and shoulders or restrictive respiratory dysfunction can disrupt normal vocal fold function, and on how vocal fold tension can influence upper quadrant tension and pressure, will be provided. The purpose of this course is to enhance unobstructed passage of sound through the various shapes formed by the oropharynx for vowel sounds and to enhance the air pressure built up behind over obstructions created by structures of the mouth to create consonant sounds that reinforce both balanced, acceptable associated posture of the stomatognathic and respiratory systems. Limited discussion, regarding velopharyngeal dysfunction (VPD) or nasality, and hypokinetic dysarthria (HD) will be included. Management of laryngeal/vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) will include ‘blowing’, ‘sucking’, speech resonance and glottal control recommendations incorporating PRI philosophy and techniques. Case presentations will be discussed and outlined treatment reasoning will be provided, along with laryngeal based techniques that incorporate PRI applications.