19 - Expiratory Muscle Strength Training (EMST) Flashcards
What does EMST stand for?
Expiratory Muscle Strength Training
What is the primary goal of EMST?
Activating and strengthening expiratory muscles
What is EMST?
2
Technique that uses an experimental pressure threshold device
The device measures the amount of expiratory pressure that occurs when blowing forcefully into the device
How can EMST be modified as the strength of the muscle increases?
(2)
The threshold value can be increased
Maximum is 150 cm H₂O
What do we measure in EMST?
2
Maximum expiratory pressure using a pressure transducer
Muscle activity involved in swallowing and breathing
What is the desired outcome of EMST?
3
Greater expiratory pressure in voice and speech production
Reducing perception of effort when speaking
Greater expiratory pressure for coughing, swallowing and breathing (possible, not usuall main goal)
Who can benefit from EMST?
3
Patients with hypofunctional or hyperfunctional voice
Pediatric patients
Patients with neurogenic disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s)
What expiratory muscles (skeletal) are targeted in EMST?
2
Abdominals
Internal intercostals
What is the reasoning behind EMST?
Skeletal muscle strength can be increased when training progresess past a period of 4 weeks
Why is strengthening expiratory muscles effective according to Powers and Howley (2004)
They may have similar metabolic properties as skeletal limb muscles when creating the energy for contraction
How often is EMST practiced?
3
4-5 weeks
5 days/week
5 sets of ~20 min/day
(Short duration, high intensity)
What is the procedure in EMST?
Patient generates a sustained expiratory pressure sufficient to open the spring-loaded valve in the EMST device
Who is EMST useful for?
2
Those with neurogenic disorders (e.g. Parkinson’s)
Anyone with hypofunction
