Aims.

Studying modulation of acoustic reflex by the Valsalva and the Jendrassik manoeuvres

Settings and Design.

Quasi-experimental research with the pre-post testing design

Methods and Material.

This self-control study was conducted on 12 healthy college students aged 21.23 ± 2.02 years. They were well trained to perform the standard Valsalva manoeuvre: maintenance of a 15second expiratory pressure at 40 mmHg with open glottis. The Jendrassik manoeuver was performed by pulling clenched hands. Acoustic reflex threshold, acoustic reflex decay, middle ear pressure and compliance were measured before and after the Valsalva and the Jendrassik manoeuvres. The order of the right or the left ear recording was random. The recovery time following manoeuvres were 5 minutes.

Statistical analysis usde All variables were compared using the repeated measured ANOVA.

Results.

There were no statistical differences in the threshold and in the decay of acoustic reflex before and after the Valsalva and the Jendrassik manoeuvres. This finding was similar in both ears and had no laterality.

Conclusions.

The Valsalva and the Jendrassik manoeuvres as modulator of some somatic and autonomic reflexes including the sound induced startle reflex have no effect on acoustic reflex.

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