Browsing by Author "Ochieng, Hillary Otieno"

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    Mechanisms Through which Lordotic Posture Affects Learners with Cerebral Palsy’s Speech Production Ability in Nairobi City County, Kenya
    (Journal of Popular Education in Africa, 2025-03) Ochieng, Hillary Otieno; Ogogo, Joyce Achieng
    The purpose of the study was to investigate mechanisms through which Lordotic Posture affects learners with cerebral palsy’s speech production ability in Nairobi City County, Kenya. The research focused on how different postures influence muscle coordination, stiffness, and breathing, which in turn affect speech production, particularly in the mouth, neck, and facial muscles. The research was guided by the myoelectric-aerodynamic theory of voice production, identifying posture as the independent variable and speech production as the dependent variable. A cross-sectional research design was employed, incorporating a review of relevant literature on posture and speech production in children with Cerebral Palsy (CP). The research involved 296 children aged 2 to 10 years diagnosed with (CP) and four paramedics, totaling 300 participants. A combination of systematic and random sampling techniques was utilized to choose the study population. To ensure the accuracy and consistency of the findings, the study measured validity and reliability using Cronbach's alpha and Kappa coefficients. Data were analyzed using SPSS software and presented in tables, charts, and frequency distributions. Participation in the study was voluntary, and all participants were assured of confidentiality and anonymity. The findings indicated that specific postural conditions significantly impact speech production. The study identified that improper posture influences phonation by altering breathing patterns and vocal structure positioning. On the basis of these findings, some recommendations were provided.
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    Relationship between Posture and Speech Production among Children with Cerebral Palsy in Rehabilitation Centers in Nairobi City County, Kenya
    (Kenyatta University, 2025-08) Ochieng, Hillary Otieno
    This research examined the relationship between posture and speech production in children diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy (CP) who receive rehabilitation services in Nairobi, Kenya. This study examined the influence of various body postures on muscle coordination, muscle stiffness, and respiration, and how these factors subsequently affect speech production, particularly within the oral, cervical, and facial muscle groups. The investigation was anchored on the myoelectric-aerodynamic theory of voice production, with posture serving as the independent variable and speech production as the dependent variable. A cross-sectional research approach was adopted, accompanied by an extensive review of literature addressing posture and speech production among children with cerebral palsy (CP). The study sample comprised 296 children aged between 2 and 10 years diagnosed with CP, along with four paramedics, making a total of 300 participants. Both systematic and random sampling methods were applied to select the study group. To guarantee precision and consistency in the results, validity and reliability were assessed using Cronbach’s alpha and Kappa statistics. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS software, with results presented in tables, charts, and frequency distribution formats. Participation was entirely voluntary, and confidentiality as well as anonymity were assured for all respondents. The results revealed that certain postural conditions exert a significant influence on speech production. Children with lordotic posture, characterized by an inward curve of the spine, demonstrated reduced speech clarity, while those with kyphosis, or a rounded upper back, experienced weak phonation, lower vocal volume, and difficulty in controlling pitch and loudness. Sway-back posture was linked to poor breath control and impaired muscle coordination, further affecting speech production. The research found that incorrect body posture affects phonation by modifying breathing rhythms and the alignment of the vocal structures. The research concluded that posture plays a crucial role in speech production among children with CP. Children with lordotic postures faced speech problems, while those with kyphotic postures exhibited weakened phonation and limited vocal control. The study recommended the implementation of inclusive healthcare policies that emphasize early intervention, posture correction, and targeted speech therapy to enhance communication abilities. Additionally, it suggested that the Ministry of Health develop structured guidelines for healthcare professionals to assess and manage posture-related speech difficulties using an integrated care approach.