Links
The larynx is a complex functional anatomical structure. Its good efficient function is dependent on the state of muscles and joint mobility.
Tension in the laryngeal muscles leads to loss of function which results in a range of symptoms of dysphagia, dysphonia, globus and many other associated symptoms. As a not uncommon example they are also responsible for the perception of secretions in the throat, hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and a feeling of tightness.
There are many causes of this tension, but it is very often linked to emotional stress, but also to misuse of the voice or unfavourable habits such as bruxism or tongue clenching.
By applying a rational physical examination protocol by palpation it is possible to identify that loss of function, identify the state of specific muscle and decrease movement of laryngeal joints. Once those structures were identified they can be treated manually applying a range of techniques such as stretching the hypertonic muscle areas, the symptoms can often be treated very effectively.
The links below to the video channel of Mevoc in Hamburg (formerly Deutsche Stimmklink, headed by Prof. Dr Markus Hess) lead to a series of videos in which Jacob Lieberman shows the corresponding movements, which he has developed on patients but also by an elaborate studying of anatomical specimens.``
There is also a link to Jacob Lieberman website where the examination protocol can be downloaded:
Aphasie suisse
Bureau International d'Audiophonologie
Deutsche Gesellschaft für Phoniatrie und Pädaudiologie
Deutscher Bundesverband für Logopädie
Deutschschweizer Logopädinnen- und Logopädenverband (DLV)
International Association of Logopedics and Phoniatrics (IALP)
Österreichische Gesellschaft für Logopädie, Phoniatrie und Pädaudiologie
http://www.meduniwien.ac.at/phon-log/
Union of the European Phoniatricians (UEP)
