Combined SOVT and Respiratory Exercises: Effects on MPT and Respiratory Function

Effects of Combined Semi-Occluded Vocal Tract (SOVT) and Respiratory Exercises on Maximum Phonation Time (MPT) and Respiratory Function in Conservatory Students Across Different Academic Years

This study aims to investigate the effects of combined SOVT and breathing exercises, administered twice weekly for six weeks to conservatory students, through a randomized controlled trial. The study has two hypotheses: H1: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises increase the maximum phonation duration. H2: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises improve spirometric parameters (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC, and PEF).

This study aims to investigate the effects of combined SOVT and breathing exercises, applied twice a week for 6 weeks, on conservatory students at Gaziantep University through a randomized controlled trial. The study has two hypotheses: H1: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises increase maximum phonation duration. H2: Combined SOVT and breathing exercises improve spirometric parameters (FEV₁, FVC, FEV₁/FVC, and PEF). In the intervention group, phonation exercises using a pipette were taught and practiced as part of the SOVT exercise. Simultaneously, pursed-lip breathing, segmental breathing, and diaphragmatic breathing exercises were taught and practiced as breathing exercises. At the end of 6 weeks, the maximum phonation duration of all participants was measured with a stopwatch. Additionally, spirometric parameters were measured using a spirometer.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Being between 18 and 35 years of age

  • Being an undergraduate student studying vocal training at a state conservatory
  • Volunteering to actively participate in the research process and signing the written consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

• • Having been diagnosed with any voice disorder (e.g., nodule, polyp, laryngitis, dysphonia, etc.)

  • Having received voice therapy, voice surgery, or respiratory physiotherapy in the past
  • Having an acute or chronic respiratory disease (e.g., asthma, COPD, bronchitis)
  • Participants who have had an upper respiratory tract infection in the last two weeks
  • Participants with a neurological, psychiatric, or cardiopulmonary system diagnosis
  • Participants who declare that they cannot regularly attend the exercise protocol