The larynx during exercise

Objectives: To develop a system capable of observing the larynx during vari ous body movements and to investigate the relation between upper Limb movem ents and laryngeal closure, often referred as "airtrapping." Study Design: An endoscope capable of observing the larynx during various body movements was developed and the laryngeal state was monitored during these movements in three subjects. The output of 12 subjects' forearms was recorded with an d without laryngeal closure. Results: The larynx was observable even during extreme exercises such as horizontal bar exercises and vault exercises. La ryngeal closure was almost always seen during the beginning of maximum effo rt of the upper limbs. During constant effort, the state of the larynx vari ed. When the output of the upper limbs was compared with and without laryng eal closure, there was an average of 20% power loss. Conclusions: This stud y suggests four possible uses for this system. 1) The system could be usefu l to evaluate laryngeal disorders during exercise such as exercise-induced laryngomalacia. 2) The results could be used to improve the pushing exercis e, a voice therapy technique. 3) The status of patients with incomplete lar yngeal closure in connection with the upper limbs could be evaluated more t horoughly. 4) The technique and equipment could be used to observe the lary nges during normal vocal processes that require body movement.