Massage-Like Sensation and Tissue Mobilization During Phonation With Two Oscillatory Positive Expiratory Pressure...

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Acoustics
• Physiology

Background:

• High-frequency vibration devices are increasingly used in therapeutic applications.
• Understanding their effect on tissue mobilization and sensory perception is crucial for optimizing treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if high-frequency vibration devices (Acapella, Shaker) induce tissue mobilization in facial, neck, and chest regions.
• To assess the self-perceived massage-like sensation resulting from device use.

Main Methods:

• Fifty-two participants performed phonatory tasks with Acapella, Shaker, or a sustained vowel [a:] (control) at three loudness levels.
• Tissue mobilization was measured using accelerometers at four locations (cheek, neck, thyroid cartilage, suprasternal notch).
• Vibration frequency, amplitude, and regularity, along with self-perceived sensation, were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Significant interactions were found for vibration amplitude and frequency.
• Jitter showed a significant interaction between task and location; shimmer did not.
• Both Acapella and Shaker devices produced significantly higher massage-like sensations compared to the control vowel [a:].

Conclusions:

• Acapella and Shaker devices effectively mobilize tissues, with potential for therapeutic massage-like effects.
• Task, loudness, and location influence tissue oscillation variables.
• While Acapella exhibited greater vibration amplitude, both devices offered similar massage sensations, highlighting the importance of controlling oscillation variables for optimal patient outcomes.