A clinical method for the detection and quantification of quick respiratory hyperkinesia
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Acquisition and Semi-Automated Analysis of Respiratory Muscle Surface Electromyography
Published on: January 24, 2025
Thomas J Hixon1, Jeannette D Hoit
1Department of Speech, Language and Hearing Sciences, Institute for Neurogenic Communication Disorders, University of Arizona, Tucson, USA. hixon@u.arizona.edu
Purpose:
Quick respiratory hyperkinesia can be difficult to detect with the naked eye. A clinical method is described for the detection and quantification of quick respiratory hyperkinesia.
Method:
Flow at the airway opening is sensed during spontaneous apnea (rest), voluntary breath holding (postural fixation), and voluntary volume displacement (intentional movement). The method is designed to reveal quick respiratory hyperkinesia independent of the function of the larynx and/or upper airway. Theory underlying the method is discussed, and a protocol is offered for clinical use.
Conclusions:
This method may be useful to neurologists, pulmonologists, and speech-language pathologists. Because it depends on nonspeech observations, its application to speech and/or voice production must be inferred.
More Related Videos
Related Concept Videos
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Acute Respiratory Failure-III
Assessment of Ventilation II: Respiratory Depth and Rhythm
Respiratory depth measures the volume of air inhaled or exhaled during a breath. It can vary from shallow to deep and typically remains consistent when a person is at rest or asleep. Occasionally, individuals will automatically inhale deeply, known as sighing, which inflates the lungs with more air than normal breathing.
To assess respiratory depth, observe the degree of chest excursion or movement:
Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes include...
Assessment of Ventilation I: Respiratory Rate
A Ventilation assessment is critical for monitoring a patient's health status. Respiration, one of the most accessible vital signs, provides insights into the function of numerous body systems and can indicate serious health issues, such as brainstem injuries from head trauma.
Critical Guidelines for Assessing Ventilation:
Respiratory Volumes and Capacities I

