A Preliminary Study Using Thermal Imaging on Voice and Throat Temperature under Induced Vocal Loading.

Abstract

Purpose: The study aimed at measuring the effect of vocal loading (loud reading) on fundamental frequency (F0), throat temperature along with self-rating questionnaire before and after loud reading task.Methods: 50 (25 men and 25 women) normo-phonic adults participated in the study. Phonation sample of vowel /a/ for 6 seconds, thrice, measurement of throat temperature and a self-rating questionnaire was collected as baseline. Participants were provided with an English novel and were instructed to read at 70-80 dB SPL for 45 minutes. Fundamental frequency, throat temperature and scores from the self-rating questionnaire were compared between pre-reading and post-reading conditions. Entire experiment was carried out in an air-conditioned room at 25 ?.Results: Statistically significant difference was observed within groups for fundamental frequency, throat temperature and scores of self-rating questionnaire. However, statistical significance was seen only in fundamental frequency and self-rating questionnaire. Conclusion: This study describes the potential use of thermal imaging to be used alongside other measures (acoustics) in assessing vocal load.