Logo image
Neurophysiology and voice production
Book chapter

Neurophysiology and voice production

Eileen M Finnegan
Routledge Handbook of Communication Disorders, pp.91-101
Routledge
2015
DOI: 10.4324/9780203569245-13

View Online

Abstract

A deeper knowledge of laryngeal anatomy and physiology contributes to a better understanding of symptoms experienced by patients with vocal disorders, the nature of the underlying etiology, and enables more flexible thinking about intervention strategies. The significance of this knowledge is reflected in the fact that the larynx serves an important role in vital reflexive and voluntary functions, such as respiration, airway protection, swallowing, and phonation. The emphasis of this chapter, which is presented in three parts, is on the phonatory role of the larynx. First, a discussion of the larynx, its sensory receptors, and intrinsic muscles is presented. Then, the cortical structures and motor pathways that control movement of the larynx are described. Finally, how laryngeal muscles coordinate activity to control aspects of phonation (pitch, register, loudness, and voicing) is discussed.

Details

Metrics

23 Record Views
Logo image