๐Ÿ›๏ธ Verified NIH Record โ€ข Updated 2026-07-16

Expiratory Muscle Strength Training for Hypernasal Speech in Children (NCT05492266)

Expiratory Muscle Strength Training as a Non-surgical Option for Velopharyngeal Dysfunction: A Randomized-controlled Trial

๐ŸŸข Recruiting Observational / Diagnostic โš™๏ธ Medical Device Protocol Sponsor: Noel Jabbour

๐Ÿฉบ Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)

When the soft palate does not move enough because of a cleft palate or for unknown reasons, this can lead to a speech difference called velopharyngeal insufficiency. The purpose of this research study is to test if soft palate exercises using a hand help breathing device will help improve the ability of the soft palate to close the area between the throat and nose and help improve speech.

Who can join: Review the eligibility criteria below.

Location: UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh โ€” Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Age range: 5 Years to 17 Years

๐Ÿ“‹ "Do I Qualify?" โ€” 1-Minute Self Screener

Instant Checklist

Full eligibility criteria are available on the official NIH protocol. View the criteria โ†—

๐Ÿ“ All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)

  • UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh โ€” Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

๐Ÿ“ž Contact the Study Coordinator

Phone: (412) 692-6874

Email: shafferad@upmc.edu

Coordinator details come directly from the registered NIH protocol. Confirm the study is still recruiting before traveling.

๐Ÿ’ฐ Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights

  • 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
  • Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA ยง 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
  • Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.

More studies in Velopharyngeal Insufficiency

๐Ÿ’ก How to Participate

  1. Check the checklist above to see if you may qualify.
  2. Contact the study coordinator using the phone/email above.
  3. Ask about the visit schedule, what is covered at no cost, and any travel support.
  4. Confirm with your own doctor before making a decision.
๐Ÿ›๏ธ View Official NIH Record โ†—