Effects of Minerva Orthosis on Larynx Height in Young, Healthy Volunteers

Background and objective:During speech, larynx is higher in the neck for high-pitched sounds and lower for low-pitched sounds. Patients with different problems in cervical and cervicothoracic spine use cervical orthosis to limit cervical motion. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Minerva orthosis on larynx height in young, healthy volunteers.It is important to determine the potential effects of cervical orthosis on pitch features because this knowledge is imperative for making decisions about bracing and modifications during speaking, especially for those who are already at risk of developing dysphagia and dysphonia.Materialsand methods: This study included 18 subjects. Acoustic measurement of frequency variability has been assessed in 3 brace conditions: (1) without brace, (2) with brace, and (3) 30 minutes after wearing the brace.Findings:The results indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between frequency parameters in –M and +M conditions. However, the following statistically significant differences in parameters were observed in the comparison of the 30 minutes +M to –M conditions: reduced MPFR in males and females, increased minimum F0 in males, reduced maximum frequency in females, and increased minimum SFF in males and females. Furthermore, the 30 minutes +M condition appeared to have the greatest impact on SFF range and pitch sigma.Conclusion: When planning cervical orthosis treatment, it is important to consider the reduction in larynx height that may result from bracing for those who are already at risk of developing dysphagia and dysphonia. A need exists, particularly for who are at risk of developing dysphagia and dysphonia, to create a personalized cervical collar that prevents unwanted side effects, conforms to the patient’s body, and limits movement for proper healing to occur. This study provides preliminary evidence of the effect of Minerva cervical orthosis on the larynx height, but more research is needed to clarify the exact impact of neck orthosis on voice performance.

Keywords:

Standard Minerva orthosis , larynx height , fundamental frequency variability