A REVIEW ARTICLE ON PHYSIOLOGY OF SPEECH

Abstract

The physiology of speech encompasses intricate processes and mechanisms involving the coordination of the respiratory, phonatory, articulatory, and nervous systems to produce spoken language. Speech production begins with respiration, where the lungs provide the necessary airflow as the energy source. This airflow passes through the trachea and larynx, where the vocal folds vibrate to generate sound waves. The pitch and loudness of the voice are modulated by the tension and length of the vocal folds, controlled by laryngeal muscles. Once sound is generated, it moves through the vocal tract, comprising the pharynx, oral cavity, and nasal cavity. Articulation shapes these sounds into recognizable speech through the coordinated movements of the tongue, lips, soft palate, and other structures. This process demands precise control to produce distinct phonemes and achieve fluency. The nervous system, particularly the brain, plays a pivotal role in speech production. The primary motor cortex initiates muscle movements, Broca’s area manages speech production and articulation, and Wernicke’s area facilitates language comprehension. Neural pathways and feedback loops ensure smooth speech execution and allow for real-time adjustments based on auditory and sensory input. This intricate interplay underscores the complexity and precision of speech physiology.