Sustained maximal inspiration has similar effects compared to incentive spirometers.

PURPOSE: To compare the effects of flow incentive spirometer (FIS), volume incentive spirometer (VIS), and sustained maximal inspiration exercise (SMI) on breathing pattern, chest wall motion, and thoracoabdominal asynchrony.

METHODS: Sixteen healthy adults aged 27.63 ± 5.26 years were evaluated by optoelectronic plethysmography in the supine position with trunk inclination of 45° during quiet breathing and during exercise performance.

RESULTS: In the comparisons among exercises, VIS promoted a significantly higher inspiratory time and lower mean inspiratory flow compared with FIS. The rating of perceived exertion according to the Borg Scale was significantly higher after the performance of FIS compared with VIS. Regarding asynchrony, none of the exercises caused changes in thoracoabdominal synchrony between the rib cage and abdomen. However, both devices significantly reduced the asynchrony between the pulmonary and abdominal rib cage compared with quiet breathing.

CONCLUSION: SMI exercise was equivalent to incentive spirometers and may be an interesting alternative for clinical use in cases in which it is not possible to acquire the devices.