Anatomy, Neuroanatomy, & Physiology of Speech Mechanism

These flashcards cover key concepts relevant to the anatomy, neuroanatomy, and physiology of the speech mechanism necessary for the student to grasp fundamental terminology and principles in speech-language pathology.

Respiration

Basic energy source for speech involving inhalation and exhalation.

Diaphragm

Muscle that separates the abdominal and thoracic cavities, playing a key role in breathing.

Larynx

Structure located at the top of the trachea that houses the vocal folds and is responsible for sound production.

Phonation

The process of producing sound via vocal cord vibration.

Intrinsic Laryngeal Muscles

Muscles that control sound production, innervated by the Cranial Nerve X (Vagus nerve).

Bernoulli Effect

Describes how an increase in the speed of air passing between the vocal folds creates a 'sucking' motion that pulls them together.

Resonance

Modification of laryngeal tone by selective dampening or enhancement of specific frequencies.

Source-filter theory

Concept that describes how energy from vibrating vocal folds is modified by the vocal tract to produce sound.

Cranial Nerve V (Trigeminal)

Responsible for sensation in the face and motor functions such as biting and chewing.

Cerebellum

Part of the brain that regulates equilibrium, body posture, and fine motor coordination.

Phonemes

The smallest units of sound that can affect meaning in a language.

Myoelastic-Aerodynamic Theory

Theory describing how vocal fold vibration is caused by air pressure and elasticity.

Phonological Processes

Patterns used by children to simplify speech as they learn to articulate correctly.

Dysarthria

A speech disorder resulting from weakness in the muscles used for speaking.

Apraxia of Speech (AOS)

A motor speech disorder where the brain has difficulty coordinating movements necessary for speech.