At what age does the larynx stop descending in the neck?

The larynx, which is responsible for producing sound, undergoes significant anatomical changes during early development, particularly in relation to speech and airway function. During infancy and early childhood, the larynx is positioned higher in the neck, which allows infants to breathe while swallowing.

As a child grows, the larynx gradually descends to a lower position, which supports the development of a more extensive range of speech sounds as well as efficient breathing. The descent continues until around the age of 5 years. By this age, the laryngeal structure is more similar to that of an adult, allowing for greater vocal flexibility and prominence of speech.

It's noteworthy that while changes in larynx position continue into adolescence, the significant shift in its descent largely stabilizes by the age of 5, marking the end of the notable descent in position relative to the neck and surrounding structures. This developmental milestone is crucial as it lays the foundation for future speech and respiratory efficiency.