Sustained maximal inspiration has similar effects compared to incentive spirometers

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Physiology
• Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Background:

• Incentive spirometers are commonly used to improve respiratory function.
• Understanding the comparative effects of different inspiratory exercises is crucial for optimizing patient care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the effects of flow incentive spirometer (FIS), volume incentive spirometer (VIS), and sustained maximal inspiration exercise (SMI) on breathing patterns.
• To evaluate the impact of these exercises on chest wall motion and thoracoabdominal asynchrony.

Main Methods:

• Sixteen healthy adults were assessed in a supine position with a 45° trunk inclination.
• Optoelectronic plethysmography was used to measure breathing patterns and chest wall motion during quiet breathing and exercise.
• Comparisons were made between FIS, VIS, and SMI.

Main Results:

• Volume incentive spirometer (VIS) led to longer inspiratory time and lower mean inspiratory flow than flow incentive spirometer (FIS).
• FIS resulted in a higher rating of perceived exertion compared to VIS.
• Both FIS and VIS significantly reduced thoracoabdominal asynchrony between the pulmonary and abdominal rib cage compared to quiet breathing, but no changes were observed between the rib cage and abdomen.

Conclusions:

• Sustained maximal inspiration exercise (SMI) demonstrated comparable effects to incentive spirometers.
• SMI presents a valuable alternative for clinical settings where incentive spirometer devices may not be accessible.