Testing Expiratory Muscle Strength Training to Improve Speech in Children with Velopharyngeal Dysfunction

What this Trial Is About

Children with velopharyngeal insufficiency, a speech difference caused by insufficient soft palate movement often related to cleft palate, are being studied to see if exercises using a breathing device can improve soft palate function and speech. This research evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of expiratory muscle strength training EMST to enhance velopharyngeal closure and reduce nasal air emissions. The study is conducted at a specialized cleft craniofacial center and includes children aged 5 to 17 years. Participants begin with 6 to 8 weeks of daily EMST exercises using the EMST-150 device, which involves sets of resistive expirations with rest periods. Those who show improvement in hypernasality scores after this period and whose families or surgeons do not plan surgery are then randomly assigned to either continue maintenance training for 6 months with fewer weekly sessions or to stop exercises. Participants without improvement end study participation after the initial exercise phase. Throughout the study, researchers assess changes in speech characteristics including nasalance scores, oral pressure, and velopharyngeal function before and after the 6 to 8 week exercise period. Secondary measures include questionnaire results and ear function tests. Participants are closely monitored for speech changes, and the study aims to provide data on EMST as a non-surgical treatment option. The total study duration may extend up to 6 months for those in maintenance training.

Expiratory Muscle Strength Training for Hypernasal Speech in Children