Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026

fMRI Mapping of Brain Activity Associated with the Vocal Production of Consonant and Dissonant Intervals
Published on: May 23, 2017
Use of neck strap muscle intermuscular coherence as an indicator of vocal hyperfunction
Cara E Stepp1, Robert E Hillman, James T Heaton
1Harvard-MIT Division of Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA 02139, USA. cstepp@alum.mit.edu
Abstract:
Intermuscular coherence in the beta band was explored as a possible indicator of vocal hyperfunction, a common condition associated with many voice disorders. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was measured from two electrodes on the anterior neck surface of 18 individuals with vocal nodules and 18 individuals with healthy normal voice. Coherence was calculated from sEMG activity gathered while participants produced both read and spontaneous speech. There was no significant effect of speech type on average coherence. Individuals with vocal nodules showed significantly lower mean coherence in the beta band (15-35 Hz) when compared to controls. Results suggest that bilateral EMG-EMG beta coherence in neck strap muscle during speech production shows promise as an indicator of vocal hyperfunction.
Related Concept Videos
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Muscles of the Anterior Neck
Mechanism of Breathing III: The Accessory Muscles
The respiratory system is a complex network that relies on primary respiratory muscles like the diaphragm, but also involves accessory muscles to enhance lung expansion and airflow during both inhalation and exhalation.
Enhancing Inhalation with Accessory Muscles:
Accessory muscles such as the sternocleidomastoid, scalene, intercostal, and abdominal muscles are crucial when additional respiratory effort is required, such as during deep...
Muscles of the Shoulder
Anterior Thoracic Muscles
The anterior thoracic muscles include the serratus anterior, subclavius, and...
Muscle Contraction
Muscle Contraction

