Abstract: A speaking valve for a tracheostomy tube which is disposed in the first end of the tube protruding from the throat of the patient. The valve has guiding ribs and a retainer to retain a ball within the end of the tube. The flow of air around the ball is unrestricted to reduce the force required to move the ball when the patient inhales and exhales. A spherical chamber is formed in which the ball is disposed. The tracheostomy tube with the valve in the first end presents a low profile.