What is Sustained Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (SMIP)?

Sustained Maximum Inspiratory Pressure (SMIP) measures respiratory muscle strength and endurance. It is a parameter used in pulmonary function testing to assess the muscles' strength in inhalation. SMIP is measured by having the individual generate maximum inspiratory pressure against a closed airway for a sustained period.

During the test, the person is asked to inhale forcefully and sustain the maximum inspiratory pressure for as long as possible. This helps evaluate the endurance and strength of the muscles responsible for breathing in, particularly the diaphragm and other inspiratory muscles. SMIP is commonly used to assess respiratory muscle function in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neuromuscular disorders, and other respiratory conditions. It provides valuable information about respiratory muscle performance and can be part of a comprehensive pulmonary function testing battery.