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Valentina Carlile Osteopata
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Osteopathy, Voice, Singing: Voice Acoustics and the Search for Primary Dysfunction in Osteopathy

Writer's picture: Valentina Carlile DOValentina Carlile DO

Osteopathy, Voice, Singing: Voice Acoustics and the Search for Primary Dysfunction in Osteopathy

Acoustics is the branch of physics that studies sound waves in detail, including their production, transmission, storage, perception, and reproduction.

Its study provides valuable information on the state and function of the phonatory system and voice alterations.

We know that the energy produced at the glottal level (source) generates the Fundamental Frequency (F0), known in acoustics as pitch/tone. This energy also produces a series of multiples of F0, known as harmonics, which are essential in studying voice quality. Some of these harmonics, resonating through the vocal tract, will be attenuated, while others will be amplified, ultimately shaping the final sound output—the voice as we perceive it.

The vocal tract plays a crucial role in shaping the acoustic signal through its form, size, and structural matrix, influencing both harmonic expression and phonetic articulation. Depending on its configuration, it produces four or five primary resonance frequencies, known as formants. Acoustic analysis of these formants provides osteopaths with key clinical insights into the vocal tract's configuration, allowing them to support the vocal coach or singing teacher in technical vocal work, as well as the speech therapist in rehabilitative training.

Specifically, a modification of F1 will reflect an alteration in oral cavity opening, making it the osteopath's task to identify the primary dysfunction underlying this condition. A change in F2 will depend on tongue positioning and an alteration in its functional chain and oro-facial structures. An alteration in F3 will require an analysis of cranial mobility/motility in its middle and anterior portion in relation to the velum, soft palate, and tongue base.


 

Valentina Carlile - Osteopath specializing in Osteopathy for Voice and Speech Disorders since 2002. For information and bookings, visit the Contact page.





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