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Research Article Volume 18 Issue 2
Kumaresan oropharyngeal facilitation technique (KOFT)
Navin Bharath K, Sabesan Karuppiah, Jeevith Isveriya K, Naanchil Natarajan, Kalai Selvi Aruldass, Kumaresan M
Received: April 10, 2026 | Published: June 8, 2026
Citation: Bharath NK, Karuppiah S, Isveriya JK, et al. Kumaresan oropharyngeal facilitation technique (KOFT). J Otolaryngol ENT Res. 2026;18(2):47-52. DOI: 10.15406/joentr.2026.18.00586
Abstract
Background: Puberphonia is characterized by the persistence of a high-pitched voice after puberty, often affecting communication and social functioning. Existing management strategies include behavioral therapy and surgical interventions, with variable outcomes. Uvula Manipulation and Resonance (UMAR) is a technique designed to oropharyngeal facilitation in phonation from the larynx to the pharynx to facilitate pitch lowering. Methods: The UMAR technique was applied in 1,650 individuals diagnosed with puberphonia. The intervention involves coordinated uvular movement during phonation combined with diaphragmatic breathing to modify airflow and resonance. Repeated practice was used to establish a conditioned neuromuscular pattern aimed at replacing the habitual high-pitched voice. Results: Among the 1,650 cases, a majority demonstrated a measurable reduction in vocal pitch and improvement in voice quality following implementation of the technique. Maintenance of lower pitch was observed with continued practice. Reports of improved social interaction and self-perception were also documented. Conclusion: UMAR represents a non-invasive, low-cost intervention for puberphonia that facilitates pitch reduction through modification of resonance and airflow. The technique shows consistent outcomes across a large case series. Further controlled studies with objective acoustic measures and long-term follow-up are required to validate efficacy and generalizability.
Keywords: oropharyngeal facilitation phonation, umar, puberphonia, breath of fire, phonation valves, kulavai, ululation
©2026 Bharath, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.