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

This study primarily aimed at observing whether high-frequency vibration devices generate tissue mobilization on facial, neck, and chest tissues. An additional objective was to inspect resulting self-perceived sensation of massage-like sensation.

Fifty-two participants engaged in a set of three phonatory tasks: (a) phonation with Shaker Medic Plus device, (b) phonation with Acapella Choice device, and (c) sustained vowel [a:] (control task). Self-perceived massage-like sensation was also assessed. All exercises were performed at three loudness levels. Tissue mobilization was captured by four accelerometers placed in four different locations: (a) over the cheek, (b) over the neck, (c) over the thyroid cartilage, and (d) over the suprasternal notch. Frequency, amplitude, and regularity of tissue oscillation were measured.

Analyses of variance showed significant second-order interactions for vibration amplitude and frequency. A two-way interaction (Task × Location) was observed for jitter, and no significant interactions were found for shimmer. Self-perceived massage-like sensation results showed that Acapella and Shaker generate almost identical effects, both being significantly higher to the one delivered by vowel [a:].

Both Acapella and Shaker devices are able to mobilize tissues. Tasks, loudness level, and location could produce an effect on tissue oscillation variables. The Acapella device tends to produce a larger amplitude of vibration than the Shaker does. However, self-reported sensation of massage is virtually the same for both devices. Control of dependent variables of tissue oscillation (frequency, amplitude, and regularity) is apparently relevant to obtain the greatest massage-like effect in patients.