Constriction & Retraction

The Larynx can close at the vocal folds and false vocal folds.

The Larynx closes at both of these points during - bracing, lifting heavy objects, giving birth, coughing, clearing your throat and having a POO!

False Vocal Folds (Ventricular Folds).

False Vocal Folds can close, reducing the airspace above the true folds or closing altogether - this is known as ‘constriction’. Imagine lifting a heavy object.

Using positive effort these false folds can be retracted to enable free movement of the vocal folds - this is known as ‘retraction’. Imagine a silent laugh/smile in your throat.