The effects of a whole-body vibration program on muscle performance and flexibility in female athletes

Effect of Localized Vibration Massage on Popliteal Blood Flow

There is a broad scope of literature investigating whole-body vibration (WBV) effects on blood flow (BF). However, it is unclear how therapeutic localized vibrations alter BF. Low-frequency massage guns are advertised to enhance muscle recovery, which may be through BF changes; however, studies using these devices are lacking. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine if popliteal artery BF increases from localized vibration to the calf. Twenty-six healthy, recreationally active university students (fourteen males, twelve females, mean age 22.3 years) participated. Each subject received eight therapeutic conditions randomized on different days with ultrasound blood flow measurements. The eight conditions combined either control, 30 Hz, 38 Hz, or 47 Hz for a duration of 5 or 10 min. BF measurements of mean blood velocity, arterial diameter, volume flow, and heart rate were measured. Using a cell means mixed model, we found that both control conditions resulted in decreased BF and that both 38 Hz and 47 Hz resulted in significant increases in volume flow and mean blood velocity, which remained elevated longer than the BF induced by 30 Hz. This study demonstrates localized vibrations at 38 Hz and 47 Hz significantly increase BF without affecting the heart rate and may support muscle recovery.

The Effect of Foot Position and Lean Mass on Jumping and Landing Mechanics in Collegiate Dancers

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of foot positioning and lean mass on jumping and landing mechanics in collegiate dancers. Thirteen dancers performed 3 unilateral and bilateral vertical jumps with feet in neutral and turnout positions. Dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scans, jump height, vertical stiffness, and joint stiffness were assessed for relationships between foot positions. Jump heights were greater in right compared with left limb (P = .029) and neutral compared with turnout (P = .020) during unilateral jumping. In unilateral landing, knee stiffness was greater in turnout compared with neutral (P = .004) during the loading phase. Jump height (P < .001) was significantly increased, and vertical stiffness (P = .003) was significantly decreased during bilateral jumping in neutral compared with turnout. Significantly increased hip stiffness during the attenuation phase was observed in neutral compared with turnout (P = .006). Left-limb lean mass was significantly less than the right limb (P < .05). Adjustments for bilateral jumping were focused on hip stiffness, whereas there was a slight shift to knee strategy for unilateral jump.

Whole Body Vibration: A Valid Alternative Strategy to Exercise?

Several studies agree that mechanical vibration can induce physiological changes at different levels, improving neuromuscular function through postural control strategies, muscle tuning mechanisms and tonic vibration reflexes. Whole-body vibration has also been reported to increase bone mineral density and muscle mass and strength, as well as to relieve pain and modulate proprioceptive function in patients with osteoarthritis or lower back pain. Furthermore, vibratory training was found to be an effective strategy for improving the physical performance of healthy athletes in terms of muscle strength, agility, flexibility, and vertical jump height. Notably, several benefits have also been observed at the brain level, proving to be an important factor in protecting and/or preventing the development of age-related cognitive disorders. Although research in this field is still debated, certain molecular mechanisms responsible for the response to whole-body vibration also appear to be involved in physiological adaptations to exercise, suggesting the possibility of using it as an alternative or reinforcing strategy to canonical training. Understanding these mechanisms is crucial for the development of whole body vibration protocols appropriately designed based on individual needs to optimize these effects. Therefore, we performed a narrative review of the literature, consulting the bibliographic databases MEDLINE and Google Scholar, to i) summarize the most recent scientific evidence on the effects of whole-body vibration and the molecular mechanisms proposed so far to provide a useful state of the art and ii) assess the potential of whole-body vibration as a form of passive training in place of or in association with exercise.

Whole-Body Vibration Effects on Flexibility in Artistic Gymnastics—A Systematic Review

It is well documented that whole body-vibration training has effects on muscle strength and flexibility, blood circulation, decreases pain perception and strengthens bone and tendon. Although whole body-vibration has benefits in athletes’ flexibility, we are not sure what its actual effects are in artistic gymnastics (since they already have stunning flexibility). Hence, the aim of this study was to analyse the studies on whole-body vibration in artistic gymnastics and to present the effects on flexibility. The search and analysis were carried out in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. The databases search (PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Cochrane Library, ProQuest, EBSCOhost and Science Direct) yielded 18,057 potential studies. By the given inclusion criteria (studies from 2005 to 2022; full-text published in English; the study included male and female gymnasts as samples, and that participants were tested for evaluation of flexibility by whole-body vibration method), a total of 9 full-text studies were included, with a total of 210 participants, both male and female. As far as the measured flexibility tests conducted, front split, sit and reach and bridge were evaluated, while obtained results were 9.1–39.1%, 2.79–6.7%, 6.43–7.45%, respectively. All studies have conducted same vibration frequency (30 Hz) with same amplitude of displacements (2 mm), except for the one study who did not show the information of implemented amplitude. After analysing the obtained results, it can be concluded that the usage of whole-body vibration platform shows flexibility improvements in artistic gymnasts, both male and female. In addition, a combination of whole-body vibration and traditional static stretching may enhance the flexibility in artistic gymnasts. However, these results should be taken with caution. Since this review did not reveal the optimal vibrational protocol, it is necessary to invest time during the implementation of various vibrational experimental protocols, so future research is required.

Evidence-Based Hamstring Injury Prevention and Risk Factor Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

BACKGROUND

Hamstring injuries are common among athletes. Considering the potentially prolonged recovery and high rate of recurrence, effective methods of prevention and risk factor management are of great interest to athletes, trainers, coaches, and therapists, with substantial competitive and financial implications.

PURPOSE

To systematically review the literature concerning evidence-based hamstring training and quantitatively assess the effectiveness of training programs in (1) reducing injury incidence and (2) managing injury risk factors.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis; Level of evidence, 1.

METHODS

A computerized search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and SPORTDiscus with manual screening of selected reference lists was performed in October 2020. Randomized controlled trials investigating methods of hamstring injury prevention and risk factor management in recreational, semiprofessional, and professional adult athletes were included.

RESULTS

Of 2602 articles identified, 108 were included. Eccentric training reduced the incidence of hamstring injury by 56.8% to 70.0%. Concentric hamstring strength increased with eccentric (mean difference [MD], 14.29 N·m; 95% CI, 8.53-20.05 N·m), concentric, blood flow-restricted, whole-body vibration, heavy back squat, FIFA 11+ (Fédération Internationale de Football Association), and plyometric training methods, whereas eccentric strength benefited from eccentric (MD, 26.94 N·m; 95% CI, 15.59-38.30 N·m), concentric, and plyometric training. Static stretching produced greater flexibility gains (MD, 10.89°; 95% CI, 8.92°-12.86°) than proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (MD, 9.73°; 95% CI, 6.53°-12.93°) and dynamic stretching (MD, 6.25°; 95% CI, 2.84°-9.66°), although the effects of static techniques were more transient. Fascicle length increased with eccentric (MD, 0.90 cm; 95% CI, 0.53-1.27 cm) and sprint training and decreased with concentric training. Although the conventional hamstring/quadriceps (H/Q) ratio was unchanged (MD, 0.03; 95% CI, -0.01 to 0.06), the functional H/Q ratio significantly improved with eccentric training (MD, 0.10; 95% CI, 0.03-0.16). In addition, eccentric training reduced limb strength asymmetry, while H/Q ratio and flexibility imbalances were normalized via resistance training and static stretching.

CONCLUSION

Several strategies exist to prevent hamstring injury and address known risk factors. Eccentric strengthening reduces injury incidence and improves hamstring strength, fascicle length, H/Q ratio, and limb asymmetry, while stretching-based interventions can be implemented to improve flexibility. These results provide valuable insights to athletes, trainers, coaches, and therapists seeking to optimize hamstring training and prevent injury.

The Essential Role of Stathmin in Myoblast C2C12 for Vertical Vibration-Induced Myotube Formation

Vertical vibration (VV) is a type of whole body vibration, which induces muscle contraction through vibration to improve muscle strength and bone density. However, the mechanism of VV on muscle cell myotube formation is still unclear. In the current study, we aim to clarify the mechanism involved in VV’s stimulation of myotube formation. In order to identify the molecules regulated by VV, we performed proteomics analysis including 2D electrophoresis combined with MALDI-TOF/TOF Mass. Stathmin was identified as a high potential molecule responding to VV stimulation, and we found that under VV stimulation, the expression of stathmin gene and protein increased in a time-dependent manner. In addition, we also confirmed that the increase of stathmin stimulated by VV is mediated through the PI3K/Akt pathway. Furthermore, stathmin siRNA significantly down-regulated the expression of myogenic regulatory factor (MRF) MyoD, decorin, and type I collagen (Col-I), and down-regulated the cellular process regulators such as FGF7, TGFBr1 and PAK3. Taken together, our results confirm that under the stimulation of VV, PI3K/Akt and stathmin would be activated, as well as the up-regulation of MRFs, such as FGF7, TGFBr1 and PAK3 to initiate myogenesis. It also showed that the response of MRF to VV stimulation was significantly related to stathmin expression, which also confirmed the importance of stathmin in the entire myotube formation process. This study may provide evidence of stathmin as a biological indicator of VV to increase muscle strength.

Retrospective study of effect of whole-body vibration training on balance and walking function in stroke patients

BACKGROUND

Dysfunction in stroke patients has been a problem that we committed to solve and explore. Physical therapy has some effect to regain strength, balance, and coordination. However, it is not a complete cure, so we are trying to find more effective treatments.

AIM

To observe the effect of whole-body vibration training (WVT) on the recovery of balance and walking function in stroke patients, which could provide us some useful evidence for planning rehabilitation.

METHODS

The clinical data of 130 stroke participants who underwent conventional rehabilitation treatment in our hospital from January 2019 to August 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. The participants were divided into whole-body vibration training (WVT) group and non-WVT (NWVT) group according to whether they were given WVT. In the WVT group, routine rehabilitation therapy was combined with WVT by the Galileo Med L Plus vibration trainer at a frequency of 20 Hz and a vibration amplitude of 0+ACY-plusmn+ADs-5.2 mm, and in the NWVT group, routine rehabilitation therapy only was provided. The treatment course of the two groups was 4 wk. Before and after treatment, the Berg balance scale (BBS), 3 m timed up-and-go test (TUGT), the maximum walking speed test (MWS), and upper limb functional reaching (FR) test were performed.

RESULTS

After 4 wk training, in both groups, the BBS score and the FR distance respectively increased to a certain amount (WVT = 46.08 ± 3.41 vs NWVT = 40.22 ± 3.75; WVT = 20.48 ± 2.23 vs NWVT = 16.60 ± 2.82), with P < 0.05. Furthermore, in the WVT group, both BBS score and FR distance (BBS: 18.32 ± 2.18; FR: 10.00 ± 0.92) increased more than that in the NWVT group (BBS: 13.29 ± 1.66; FR: 6.16 ± 0.95), with P < 0.05. Meanwhile, in both groups, the TUGT and the MWS were improved after training (WVT = 32.64 ± 3.81 vs NWVT = 39.56 ± 3.68; WVT = 12.73 ± 2.26 vs NWVT = 15.04 ± 2.27, respectively), with P < 0.05. The change in the WVT group (TUGT: 17.49 ± 1.88; MWS: 6.79 ± 0.81) was greater than that in the NWVT group (TUGT: 10.76 ± 1.42; MWS: 4.84 ± 0.58), with P < 0.05.

CONCLUSION

The WVT could effectively improve the balance and walking function in stroke patients, which may be good for improving their quality of life.

Effects of Plyometric Vs. Combined Plyometric Training on Vertical Jump Biomechanics in Female Basketball Players

The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the effects of plyometric training and combined training programs on vertical jump kinematics and kinetics of female basketball players. Thirty-six female basketball players were included in the study and further divided into three groups: plyometric training, n = 11; combined training n =13; and a control group, n =12. Combined training comprised full squat exercise with low resistance (50-65% 1RM) and low volume (3-6 repetitions/set) combined with repeated jumps. Plyometric training included drop jumps and repeated jumps. Both training methods showed a moderate increase in jump performance, although combined training achieved substantially higher values than plyometric training alone. After plyometric training, the vertical velocity and displacement of the center of mass of the countermovement jump increased, while force variables decreased. Combined training increased power, vertical velocity and displacement of the center of mass, but force variables remained unchanged. Both training methods improved jump height, velocity and displacement of the center of mass. Combined training maintained force measures while plyometric training decreased them. These results indicate that combined training might provide better outcomes on jump performance than plyometric training alone. It also appears important to measure biomechanical variables to appropriately interpret the effects of different training methods.

The Recovery Benefit on Skin Blood Flow Using Vibrating Foam Rollers for Postexercise Muscle Fatigue in Runners

PURPOSE

To determine the effect of vibrating rollers on skin blood flow after running for recovery from muscle fatigue.

METHOD

23 healthy runners, aged between 20 to 45 years, participated in a crossover trial. Muscle fatigue was induced by running, and recovery using a vibrating roller was determined before and after the intervention. Each subject was measured at three time points (prerun, postrun, and postroller) to compare skin blood flow perfusion and blood flow oscillation at the midpoint of the dominant gastrocnemius muscle. The results show that blood perfusion is greater when a vibrating roller is used than a foam roller, but there is no statistical difference. The analysis of blood flow oscillation shows that vibrating rollers induce 30% greater endothelial activation than a foam roller. Vibrating rollers significantly stimulate the characteristic frequency for myogenic activation (p < 0.05); however, the effect size is conservative.

Effects of whole body vibration with exercise therapy versus exercise therapy alone on flexibility, vertical jump height, agility and pain in athletes with patellofemoral pain: a randomized clinical trial

Background

Patellofemoral pain (PFP) is the most prevalent orthopedic problem in active young adults. Due to its multifactorial etiology, a variety of therapeutic measures have been adopted to treat PFP, including exercise therapy, electrotherapy, and manual therapy. It has also been suggested that whole body vibration (WBV) can improve neuromuscular function in persons with knee problems. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of adding WBV to routine exercise programs on flexibility, vertical jump height, agility and pain in athletes with PFP.

Methods

Twenty-four male athletes with PFP were randomized into two groups of WBV + exercise (n = 12) or exercise only (n = 12). Participants received their interventions during 4 consecutive weeks (12 sessions). Pain intensity, flexibility and agility were assessed respectively as score on a numerical rating scale, the sit-and-reach test, and a modified T-test, and vertical jump height was measured to the nearest centimeter. The tests were done before and after the interventions, and the results were compared between the two groups. Independent t-tests and paired t-tests were used for between- and within-group comparisons, respectively.

Results

After the interventions, all variables for vertical jump height, flexibility, agility and pain intensity improved significantly in both groups (p < 0.05). The flexibility test showed significantly greater improvement in the WBV + exercise group (p<0.001), whereas for vertical jump height, agility and pain intensity, there were no statistically significant differences between groups (p>0.05).

Conclusions

The present findings showed that exercise therapy with and without WBV can significantly decrease pain and increase agility, vertical jump height and flexibility in athletes with PFP. Adding WBV to routine exercise therapy, however, can augment the effects of the latter on flexibility.

Trial registration

IRCT, IRCT20090831002391N39. Registered 7 February 2018, https://en.irct.ir/search/result?query=IRCT20090831002391N39.

Multiple-Joint Isokinetic Dynamometry: A Critical Review

Dvir, Z and Müller, S. Multiple-joint isokinetic dynamometry: a critical review. J Strength Cond Res 34(2): 587-601, 2020-Angular isokinetic dynamometry (AID) is widely regarded as the gold standard for dynamic muscle performance testing. Based on the rotational movement of its actuator, AID targets "single-joint" (knee, shoulder, hip, etc.) configurations namely measurement of muscle potential while it moves the lever arm-limb assembly ostensibly around a single fixed axis. On the other hand, the application of multiple-joint isokinetic dynamometry (MID) is relatively narrow, both in research and in practice. This situation is due, possibly, to the fact that these dynamometers are generally more limited in scope namely to testing/conditioning of combined hip, knee, ankle motion (leg press), combined shoulder, elbow motion, and lifting motion patterns, despite the fact that all 3 are associated with higher functionality. However, with the emerging importance of MID, this critical review takes a fresh look at its various aspects including the terminology and classification of multiple-joint isokinetic dynamometers; the problem of scaling namely the need to adjust the range of motion and linear velocities to subjective anthropometric measures; specific technical and methodological issues that underlie the valid application of these dynamometers; available reference values; and the reproducibility of MID-based test findings. Analysis of these topics indicates that MID may validly and effectively be applied for the assessment and conditioning of specific muscle action patterns. However, there is a clear need for standardization of tests and for conditioning protocols alongside research into the use of this method in various clinical cohorts.

Whole-body vibration and stretching enhances dorsiflexion range of motion in individuals with chronic ankle instability

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to determine if WBV performed concurrently with static stretching was more effective than static stretching alone to increase dorsiflexion ROM (DFROM) in individuals with chronic ankle instability (CAI).

DESIGN

Controlled laboratory study.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-nine participants with CAI (history of ankle sprain, a feeling of "giving way" during activity, and a qualifying Foot and Ankle Ability Measure Ankle score) were divided into 3 groups (normative (N), static stretch (SS), and static stretch with vibration (SV)). Participants stretched the triceps surae 4 days/wk for 3 wks. Vibration was imposed at 34 Hz and 1.8 mm.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

DFROM was assessed in a straight and bent-leg position.

RESULTS

No differences were detected at any time in the N or SS group, however SS did exhibit large effect sizes with 95% confidence intervals (CI) that did not cross zero from baseline to 3 weeks for both measures. The SV group demonstrated increased DFROM from baseline for both time points and a large effect size with 95% CI that did not cross zero from post tx-1 to post tx-2.

CONCLUSIONS

Static stretching with WBV increases DFROM in participants with CAI more effectively than static stretching alone.

Effects of whole-body vibration training frequency on neuromuscular performance: a randomized controlled study

This study compared the efficacy of two whole-body vibration (WBV) protocols with equal training volume and different frequency of training sessions/week on body composition and physical fitness. Sixty male air force cadets (age: 20.5±1.4 years) were randomly assigned to a lower frequency (Lf-WBV), a higher frequency (Hf-WBV) or a control group (CG). The training volume was equated (20 training sessions) between the two WBV groups, but the number of weekly training sessions was different. The Lf-WBV group trained three times per week, the Hf-WBV group trained five times per week, while the CG did not perform any training. Each training session, for both groups, included 10 sets x 1 min with 1 min rest of WBV on a synchronous vibration platform (25-35 Hz, 4-6 mm). Body composition, flexibility, maximal strength, 30 m sprint time, squat jump (SJ) and countermovement jump (CMJ) performance, Wingate test performance, and 20 m shuttle run performance were evaluated before and after training. Only the Hf-WBV group demonstrated an increase in flexibility (+7%; p<0.01; d=0.33) and maximal strength (+10%; p=0.016; d= 0.59), and a significant reduction in fat mass (-6.2%; p<0.01; d=0.21). SJ performance improved to a similar extent in both Hf-WBV and Lf-WBV groups (+7%; p<0.01; d=0.32). There were no changes in any parameter in the CG. In conclusion, only the condensed weekly WBV protocol was effective in improving body composition, flexibility, lower limb strength and power in young active individuals. The WBV protocol with the higher dispersion of training sessions per week (lower training frequency/week) improved SJ performance but did not have any effect on body composition, flexibility, or maximal strength.

Anticipation modulates neuromechanics of drop jumps in known or unknown ground stiffness

With an emphasis on ballistic movements, an accurately anticipated neural control is an essential prerequisite to deliver a motor response coincidentally with the event of ground contact. This study investigated how previous knowledge of the ground condition affects proactive and reactive motor control in drop jumps (DJ). Thereby, human anticipatory capacity of muscle activation was investigated regarding neuromuscular activation, joint kinematics and peak forces associated with DJ performance. In 18 subjects, the effect of knowledge of two different surface conditions during DJs was evaluated. Peak force, ground-contact-time (GCT), rate of force development (RFD) and jump height were assessed. Electromyographic (EMG) activities of the m. soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM) were assessed for 150ms before (PRE) and during ground contact (GC) for the short-, medium-, and long-latency responses. Ankle and knee joint kinematics were recorded in the sagittal plane.In the unknown conditions peak force, RFD and jump height declined, GCT was prolonged, proactive EMG activity (PRE) in SOL and GM was diminished (P<0.05). During GC, a decline in EMG activity in the unknown condition was manifested for SOL and GM for the SLR, MLR and LLR (P<0.05). Ankle and knee joint deflections during GC were increased in the unknown vs. known condition (P<0.05). Peak force, RFD and jump height were positively correlated to GM-EMG in PRE, SLR, MLR and LLR (P<0.05). Results revealed that proactive and reactive modulations in muscle activity prior and during GC are interrelated to the force-time characteristics and height of the jumps. The unknown condition revealed a comparable neuromuscular activity during pre-activation for both conditions, followed by an inhibition in the subsequent phase after touch down. These findings underline that anticipation is a determining factor influencing timing and adjustment of motor responses to accomplish ballistic movements regarding precision and performance.

Transforming growth factor beta 1 mediates the low-frequency vertical vibration enhanced production of tenomodulin and type I collagen in rat Achilles tendon

Vertical vibration (VV) is a whole-body vibration with mechanical loading that commonly used in rehabilitation and sports training to increase athlete muscle strength. Our previous study showed that low-magnitude, low-frequency VV at 8 Hz and 10 Hz increased myoblast myogenesis. Herein, we investigated whether a VV frequency at low-frequency 5-10 Hz has anabolic effects on tenocytes and improves tendon stiffness. In primary tenocytes, 10 Hz VV treatment increased the tenogenic marker gene expression of tenomodulin and extracellular matrix type I collagen but decreased decorin expression. qPCR and Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) results showed that TGF-β1 expression was increased in tenocytes after 3 days of 10 Hz VV treatment in vitro and in Achilles tendons after 3 weeks in vivo. Tenomodulin expression and Achilles tendon stiffness were significantly increased in Achilles tendons after 3 weeks in vivo. We also showed that the TGF-β1 receptor inhibitor SB431542 (10 μM) decreased the expression of tenomodulin and type I collagen but increased the decorin expression in tenocytes. These results indicated that the 10 Hz VV stimulated anabolic effects in tenocytes by increasing TGF-β1 expression that subsequently increases the expression of tenomodulin and type I collagen, and increased the Achilles tendon stiffness. This study provides insight into the low-frequency 10 Hz VV treatment improves tendon properties and can minimizes the risk of ligament/tendon reinjure during rehabilitation.

Effect of rebound exercises on balance in children with spastic diplegia

Background/Aims:

Rebound exercises using a trampoline and BOSU ball provides proprioceptive and vestibular stimulation and improve postural control and balance. Although there is no evidence to support the benefits of using rebound exercises, it is widely used in rehabilitation. The current study aimed to investigate the effect of a rebound exercises on balance in children with spastic diplegia.

Methods:

Forty children with spastic diplegia from both sexes, age ranged from 6 to 10 years participated in this study. They were allocated randomly into two groups of equal numbers, one was the control group and the other was the study group. The control group received a designed physical therapy programme for 1 hour and balance training for 1 hour. The study group received the same physical therapy programme as the control group in addition to rebound exercises for one hour. The treatment programmes of both groups were conducted 3 days a week for 2 successive months. The assessments of dynamic balance were conducted pre, post treatment and 1 month after the end of the treatment using the Biodex balance system.

Results:

Baseline and post treatment comparisons showed a statistically significant improvement of balance in the two groups. There was no significant difference between post treatment and post 1 month follow-up in the control group, while a significant difference was recorded in the study group.

Conclusions:

Rebound exercises conducted with a designed physical therapy programme is beneficial and has a significant effect in improving balance.

Efficacy of Whole-Body Vibration Board Training on Strength in Athletes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Randomized Controlled Study

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether an 8-week whole-body vibration training program may improve recovery of knee flexion/extension muscular strength in athletes after arthroscopic anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction.

DESIGN

Randomized controlled trial.

SETTING

Single outpatient rehabilitation center.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-eight female volleyball/basketball players (aged between 20 and 30), randomized into 2 treatment groups.

INTERVENTIONS

During a standardized six-month rehabilitation program, from week 13 to week 20 after surgery, the whole-body vibration group (n = 19) and the control group (n = 19) performed additional static knee flexor/extensor exercises on a vibration platform. For the whole-body vibration group, the vibration platform was set to 2.5 mm of amplitude and 26 Hz of frequency. The control group followed the same whole-body vibration board training with no vibrations.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

All patients were evaluated using an isokinetic strength test with a Biodex dynamometer at the beginning and at the end of the additional treatment protocol. The parameters tested were the peak torque and the maximum power of knee flexor and extensor muscles performing strength and endurance tests.

RESULTS

No vibration-related side effects were observed. Improvements were noticed in both groups, but increase in knee muscle isokinetic strength values was statistically significant in the whole-body vibration group when compared with the control group (differences in extension: peak torque 11.316/10.263 N·m and maximum power 13.684/11.211 W; flexion: peak torque 9.632/11.105 N·m and maximum power 10.158/9.474 W; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

When combined with a standardized rehabilitation program, whole-body vibration may increase muscular strength and be an effective additional treatment option in the rehabilitation of athletes after ACL arthroscopic reconstruction.

The acute effects of stretching with vibration on dynamic flexibility in young female gymnasts

BACKGROUND

While stretching with vibration has been shown to improve static flexibility; the effect of stretching with vibration on dynamic flexibility is not well known. The purpose of this study was to examine the effectiveness of stretching with vibration on acute dynamic flexibility and jump height in novice and advanced competitive female gymnasts during a split jump.

METHODS

Female gymnast (N.=27, age: 11.5±1.7 years, Junior Olympic levels 5-10) participated in this cross-over study. Dynamic flexibility during gymnastic split jumps were video recorded and analyzed with Dartfish software. All participants completed both randomized stretching protocols with either the vibration platform turned on (VIB) (frequency of 30 Hz and 2 mm amplitude) or off (NoVIB) separated by 48 h. Participants performed 4 sets of three stretches on the vibration platform. Each stretch was held for 30 seconds with 5 seconds rest for a total of 7 minutes of stretch.

RESULTS

Split jump flexibility decreased significantly from pre to post measurement in both VIB (-5.8±5.9°) (P<0.001) and NoVIB (-2.6±6.1°) (P=0.041) conditions (adjusted for gymnast level). This effect was greatest in lower skill level gymnasts (P=0.003), while the highest skill level gymnasts showed no significant decrease in the split jump (P=0.105). Jump height was not significantly different between conditions (P=0.892) or within groups (P=0.880).

CONCLUSIONS

An acute session of static stretching with or without vibration immediately before performance does not alter jump height. Stretching with vibration immediately prior to gymnastics competition decreases split jump flexibility in lower level gymnasts more than upper level gymnasts.

Association between gene polymorphisms and obesity and physical fitness in Korean children

Obesity is affected by genetic factors and environmental influences. This research was undertaken to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) related to obesity and physical fitness and then to analyse and compare interactions between physical fitness and obesity-associated genotypes. To investigate relationships between physical fitness and major SNPs previously reported to be related to obesity, 68 SNPs in 32 genes were genotyped in 71 Korean children. Tests were conducted to evaluate five elements of physical fitness (speed, aerobic endurance, muscular endurance, muscular strength, and flexibility). The results obtained showed significant (P<0.02) differences in physical fitness scores for the following genotypes: CNR1 (rs1049353; GG), LEP (rs7799039; AA+AG), HHEX (rs1111875; TT), GC (rs16847015; TG+GG), LRP5 (rs4988300; GG+GT), NPY2R (rs2880415; CT+CC), PPY (rs231472; GG), UCP2 (rs660339; CT+TT), CDKN2B (rs10811661; AA+AG), and ADIPOQ (rs266729; CG+GG). Ten physical fitness-related genotypes were newly identified during the present study. This study suggests that classification of genotypes by physical fitness level could be used as an index for predicting the risk of obesity and for selecting individuals for intervention programmes. Furthermore, the study shows that even children participating in the same physical fitness improvement programme can exhibit different genotype dependencies.

Efficacy of the whole-body vibration for pain, fatigue and quality of life in women with fibromyalgia: a systematic review

PURPOSE

To determine the quality of evidence on the use of whole-body vibration (WBV) in controlling pain, fatigue and quality of life in women with fibromyalgia.

METHODS

The search involved MEDLINE/PubMed, LILACS, CINAHL, CENTRAL and PEDro, without temporal or language restriction. The terms "fibromyalgia" and "whole-body vibration" were used. Trials (randomized or quasi-randomized) that compared a group of women with fibromyalgia who received WBV to a control group with no intervention were included. The quality of evidence was assessed using the GRADE system. The quantitative evaluation by meta-analysis was also used, whenever possible.

RESULTS

Three studies were included. Regarding the outcome pain, it has not been possible to assess the magnitude of effect of treatment. The result of the outcome fatigue showed no difference between the groups after the proposed intervention (Mean Difference: 0.01; 95% CI: -0.11 to 0.09). The meta-analysis for the outcome quality of life showed a small difference between groups, favoring the WBV group (Standard Mean Difference: 0.4943; p = 0.05; 95% CI: 0.0045 to 0.9841).

CONCLUSIONS

The results, based on very low quality of evidence, were inconclusive regarding pain, and showed no clinically important effects on the control of fatigue and improvement of quality of life. Implications for rehabilitation There is no evidence to support the use of whole-body vibration for pain treatment of women with fibromyalgia. The use of whole-body vibration in women with fibromyalgia showed no clinically important effects in the control of fatigue and improvement of quality of life.

Effect of Post-Exercise Whole Body Vibration with Stretching on Mood State, Fatigue, and Soreness in Collegiate Swimmers

Static stretching (SS) during whole body vibration (WBV) has been suggested for exercise recovery. The purpose was to compare post-exercise self-ratings of fatigue (FAT), mood state (BAM), soreness (SOR), and perceived exertion (RPE) between SS and WBV+SS in swimmers (9 women, mean ± SD: 19.3 ± 1.3 year, 171 ± 5.7 cm, 67.6 ± 7.2 kg, 26.6 ± 4.1 %body fat (%BF); 10 men, mean ± SD: 19.7 ± 1.0 year, 183 ± 5.5 cm, 77.1 ± 4.2 kg, 13.1 ± 2.2 %BF). Athletes were divided by sex, event (sprint, distance), and assigned to SS or WBV+SS. Both conditions consisted of SS performed on the WBV platform with or without WBV (50 Hz, 6 mm). Sessions consisted of: pre and post measures of BAM, FAT, SOR; the condition; and RPE. Mixed factorial ANOVA were run. A significant condition by pre/post interaction was observed (p = 0.035). Post hoc analyses showed WBV+SS elicited lower post-exercise ratings of FAT (p = 0.002) and the BAM affective states, of tension (p = 0.031), and fatigue (p = 0.087). RPE did not differ between conditions. Of interest is the decrease in tension and fatigue noted by the BAM. Mood state can be indicative of how athletes adapt to training volume and intensity.

Bouncing on Mars and the Moon—the role of gravity on neuromuscular control: correlation of muscle activity and rate of force development

On our astronomical neighbors Mars and the Moon, bouncing movements are the preferred locomotor techniques. During bouncing, the stretch-shortening cycle describes the muscular activation pattern. This study aimed to identify gravity-dependent changes in kinematic and neuromuscular characteristics in the stretch-shortening cycle. Hence, neuromuscular control of limb muscles as well as correlations between the muscles’ pre-activation, reflex components, and force output were assessed in lunar, Martian, and Earth gravity. During parabolic flights, peak force (Fmax), ground-contact-time, rate of force development (RFD), height, and impulse were measured. Electromyographic (EMG) activities in the m. soleus (SOL) and gastrocnemius medialis (GM) were assessed before (PRE) and during bounces for the reflex phases short-, medium-, and long-latency response (SLR, MLR, LLR). With gradually decreasing gravitation, Fmax, RFD, and impulse were reduced, whereas ground-contact time and height increased. Concomitantly, EMG_GM decreased for PRE, SLR, MLR, and LLR, and in EMG_SOL in SLR, MLR, and LLR. For SLR and MLR, Fmax and RFD were positively correlated to EMG_SOL. For PRE and LLR, RFD and Fmax were positively correlated to EMG_GM. Findings emphasize that biomechanically relevant kinematic adaptations in response to gravity variation were accompanied by muscle- and phase-specific modulations in neural control. Gravitational variation is anticipated and compensated for by gravity-adjusted muscle activities. Importantly, the pre-activation and reflex phases were differently affected: in SLR and MLR, SOL is assumed to contribute to the decline in force output with a decreasing load, and, complementary in PRE and LLR, GM seems to be of major importance for force generation.

Effects of whole body vibration on muscle contractile properties in exercise induced muscle damaged females

Determining muscle contractile properties following exercise is critical in understanding neuromuscular function. Following high intensity training, individuals often experience exercise induced muscle damage (EIMD). The purpose of this investigation was to determine the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) on muscle contractile properties following EIMD. Twenty-seven females volunteered for 7 sessions and were randomly assigned to a treatment or control group. Muscle contractile properties were assessed via voluntary torque (VT), peak twitch torque (TT), time to reach peak torque, half relaxation time of twitch torque, percent activation (%ACT), rate of rise (RR), rate of decline (RD), mean and peak electromyography during maximum voluntary isometric contraction. Two testing sets were collected each day, consisting of pre measures followed by WBV or control and post measures. A mixed factor analysis of variance was conducted for each variable. %ACT measures found baseline being less than day 1 in both measures in the control group. TT was found to be greater in the control group compared to WBV group. TT and VT baseline measures were greater than all other time points. RR showed control group had higher values than WBV group. These results indicate that WBV following EIMD had some positive effects on muscle contractile properties.

The acute effects of different training loads of whole body vibration on flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs in divers

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effects of different vibration loads (frequency and amplitude) of whole-body vibration (WBV) on flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs in springboard divers. Eighteen male and female divers, aged 19 ± 2 years, volunteered to perform 3 different WBV protocols in the present study. To assess the vibration effect, flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs were measured before (Pre), immediately after (Post 1) and 15 min after the end of vibration exposure (Post 15). Three protocols with different frequencies and amplitudes were used in the present study: a) low vibration frequency and amplitude (30 Hz/2 mm); b) high vibration frequency and amplitude (50 Hz/4 mm); c) a control protocol (no vibration). WBV protocols were performed on a Power Plate platform, whereas the no vibration divers performed the same protocol but with the vibration platform turned off. A two-way ANOVA 3 x 3 (protocol × time) with repeated measures on both factors was used. The level of significance was set at p < 0.05. Univariate analyses with simple contrasts across time were selected as post hoc tests. Intraclass coefficients (ICC) were used to assess the reliability across time. The results indicated that flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs were significantly higher in both WBV protocols compared to the no vibration group (NVG). The greatest improvement in flexibility and explosive strength, which occurred immediately after vibration treatment, was maintained 15 min later in both WBV protocols, whereas NVG revealed a significant decrease 15 min later, in all examined strength parameters. In conclusion, a bout of WBV significantly increased flexibility and explosive strength in competitive divers compared with the NVG. Therefore, it is recommended to incorporate WBV as a method to increase flexibility and vertical jump height in sports where these parameters play an important role in the success outcome of these sports.

Small and inconsistent effects of whole body vibration on athletic performance: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Purpose

We quantified the acute and chronic effects of whole body vibration on athletic performance or its proxy measures in competitive and/or elite athletes.

Methods

Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.

Results

Whole body vibration combined with exercise had an overall 0.3 % acute effect on maximal voluntary leg force (−6.4 %, effect size = −0.43, 1 study), leg power (4.7 %, weighted mean effect size = 0.30, 6 studies), flexibility (4.6 %, effect size = −0.12 to 0.22, 2 studies), and athletic performance (−1.9 %, weighted mean effect size = 0.26, 6 studies) in 191 (103 male, 88 female) athletes representing eight sports (overall effect size = 0.28). Whole body vibration combined with exercise had an overall 10.2 % chronic effect on maximal voluntary leg force (14.6 %, weighted mean effect size = 0.44, 5 studies), leg power (10.7 %, weighted mean effect size = 0.42, 9 studies), flexibility (16.5 %, effect size = 0.57 to 0.61, 2 studies), and athletic performance (−1.2 %, weighted mean effect size = 0.45, 5 studies) in 437 (169 male, 268 female) athletes (overall effect size = 0.44).

Conclusions

Whole body vibration has small and inconsistent acute and chronic effects on athletic performance in competitive and/or elite athletes. These findings lead to the hypothesis that neuromuscular adaptive processes following whole body vibration are not specific enough to enhance athletic performance. Thus, other types of exercise programs (e.g., resistance training) are recommended if the goal is to improve athletic performance.

Effects of whole-body vibration training with quadriceps strengthening exercise on functioning and gait parameters in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis: a randomised controlled preliminary study

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effects of whole-body vibration training (WBVT) with quadriceps strengthening exercise (QSE) with QSE alone on functioning and gait parameters in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.

DESIGN

Randomised controlled preliminary study.

SETTING

Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, West China Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, People's Republic of China.

SUBJECTS

Thirty-nine patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis.

INTERVENTIONS

Participants were assigned at random to one of two groups.

MAIN MEASURES

Visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), timed up and go test (TUG), 6-minute walk distance test (6MWD), and three-dimensional gait analysis during level walking at baseline, 12 weeks and 16 weeks (follow-up).

RESULTS

Compared with baseline, significant improvements in VAS, all WOMAC scales, TUG, 6MWD and all spatiotemporal parameters were seen in both the WBVT+QSE group and the QSE alone group at 12 and 16 weeks. However, the WBVT+QSE group showed greater improvements than the QSE alone group in WOMAC scales (physical function), TUG, 6MWD and cadence at 12 weeks. No differences were found between the WBVT+QSE and QSE alone groups in VAS, WOMAC scales (pain, stiffness), kinematic and kinetic gait parameters, and other spatiotemporal parameters at 12 weeks and 16 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Over a 3-month period, WBVT in combination with QSE improved symptoms, physical function and spatiotemporal parameters in patients with medial compartment knee osteoarthritis, and led to greater improvement than QSE alone in WOMAC scales (physical function), TUG, 6MWD and cadence.

Alternative to traditional stretching methods for flexibility enhancement in well-trained combat athletes: local vibration versus whole-body vibration

This study aimed to compare the effect of local vibration (LV) and whole body vibration (WBV) on lower body flexibility and to assess whether vibration treatments were more effective than traditionally used static and dynamic stretching methods. Twenty-four well-trained male combat athletes (age: 22.7 ± 3.3 years) performed four exercise protocols – LV (30 Hz, 4 mm), WBV (30 Hz, 4 mm), static stretching (SS), and dynamic stretching (DS) – in four sessions of equal duration 48 hours apart in a randomized, balanced order. During a 15-minute recovery after each protocol, subjects performed the stand and reach test (S&R) at the 15th second and the 2^nd, 4^th, 6^th, 8^th, 10^th and 15^th minute. There was a similar change pattern in S&R scores across the 15-minute recovery after each protocol (p = 0.572), remaining significantly elevated throughout the recovery. A significant main protocol effect was found for absolute change in S&R scores relative to baseline (p = 0.015). These changes were statistically greater in LV than WBV and DS. Changes in SS were not significantly different from LV, but were consistently lower than LV with almost moderate effect sizes. After LV, a greater percentage of subjects increased flexibility above the minimum detectable change compared to other protocols. Subjects with high flexibility (n = 12) benefited more from LV compared with other methods (effect size ≥ 0.862). In conclusion, LV was an effective alternative exercise modality to acutely increase lower extremity flexibility for well-trained athletes compared with WBV and traditional stretching exercises.

Whole body vibration exercises and the improvement of the flexibility in patient with metabolic syndrome

Vibrations produced in oscillating/vibratory platform generate whole body vibration (WBV) exercises, which are important in sports, as well as in treating diseases, promoting rehabilitation, and improving the quality of life. WBV exercises relevantly increase the muscle strength, muscle power, and the bone mineral density, as well as improving the postural control, the balance, and the gait. An important number of publications are found in the PubMed database with the keyword “flexibility” and eight of the analyzed papers involving WBV and flexibility reached a level of evidence II. The biggest distance between the third finger of the hand to the floor (DBTFF) of a patient with metabolic syndrome (MS) was found before the first session and was considered to be 100%. The percentages to the other measurements in the different sessions were determined to be related to the 100%. It is possible to see an immediate improvement after each session with a decrease of the %DBTFF. As the presence of MS is associated with poorer physical performance, a simple and safe protocol using WBV exercises promoted an improvement of the flexibility in a patient with MS.

Physiological response to whole-body vibration in athletes and sedentary subjects

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a new exercise method, with good acceptance among sedentary subjects. The metabolic response to WBV has not been well documented. Three groups of male subjects, inactive (SED), endurance (END) and strength trained (SPRINT) underwent a session of side-alternating WBV composed of three 3-min exercises (isometric half-squat, dynamic squat, dynamic squat with added load), and repeated at three frequencies (20, 26 and 32 Hz). VO(2), heart rate and Borg scale were monitored. Twenty-seven healthy young subjects (10 SED, 8 SPRINT and 9 END) were included. When expressed in % of their maximal value recorded in a treadmill test, both the peak oxygen consumption (VO(2)) and heart rate (HR) attained during WBV were greatest in the SED, compared to the other two groups (VO(2): 59.3 % in SED vs 50.8 % in SPRINT and 48.0 % in END, p<0.01; HR 82.7 % in SED vs 80.4 % in SPRINT and 72.4 % in END, p<0.05). In conclusions, the heart rate and metabolic response to WBV differs according to fitness level and type, exercise type and vibration frequency. In SED, WBV can elicit sufficient cardiovascular response to benefit overall fitness and thus be a potentially useful modality for the reduction of cardiovascular risk.

The acute effect of whole body vibration training on flexibility and explosive strength of young gymnasts

The purpose of this study was to examine the acute effect of a single bout of whole body vibration (WBV) on flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs in young artistic gymnasts. Thirty-two young competitive gymnasts volunteered to participate in this study, and were allocated to either the vibration group or traditional body weight training according to the vibration protocol. The vibration intervention consisted of a single bout of eccentric and concentric squatting movements on a vibration platform that was turned on (vibration group: VG n = 15), whereas the traditional body weight (no vibration) group performed the same training protocol with the WBV device turned off (NVG: n= 17). Flexibility (sit and reach test) and explosive strength tests [squat jump (SJ), counter movement jump (CMJ), and single leg squat (right leg (RL) and left leg (LL))] were performed initially (pre-test), immediately after the intervention (post-test 1), and 15 minutes after the end of the intervention programme (post-test 15). Four 2x3 ANOVAs were used to examine the interaction between group (VG vs NVG) and time (pre, post 1, and post 15) with respect to examined variables. The results revealed that a significant interaction between group and time was found with respect to SJ (p < 0.05). However, no significant interaction between group and time was found with respect to flexibility, CMJ, RL and LL after the end of the intervention programme (p > 0.05). Further, the percentage improvement of the VG was significantly greater in all examined variables compared to the NVG. This study concluded that WBV training improves flexibility and explosive strength of lower limbs in young trained artistic gymnasts and maintains the initial level of performance for at least 15 minutes after the WBV intervention programme.

Progressive-overload whole-body vibration training as part of periodized, off-season strength training in trained women athletes

The purpose was to examine the effects of progressive-overload, whole-body vibration (WBV) training on strength and power as part of a 15-week periodized, strength training (ST) program. Eighteen collegiate women athletes with ≥1 year of ST and no prior WBV training participated in the crossover design. Random assignment to 1 of the 2 groups followed pretests of seated medicine ball throw (SMBT), single-leg hop for distance (LSLH, RSLH), countermovement jump (CMJ), 3 repetition maximum (3RM) front squat (FS), pull-up (PU), and 3RM bench press (BP). Whole-body vibration was two 3-week phases of dynamic and static hold body weight exercises administered 2 d·wk in ST sessions throughout the 15-week off-season program. Total WBV exposure was 6 minutes broken into 30-second bouts with 60-second rest (1:2 work-to-relief ratio). Exercises, frequency, and amplitude progressed in intensity from the first 3-week WBV training to the second 3-week phase. Repeated-measures analysis of variances were used to analyze the SMBT, CMJ, LSLH, RSLH, FS, PU, and BP tests. Alpha level was p ≤ 0.05. Front squat, LSLH, and RSLH increased (p = 0.001) from pre- to posttest; FS increased from mid- to posttest. Pull-up increased (p = 0.008) from pre- to posttest. Seated medicine ball throw and BP showed a trend of increased performance from pre- to posttest (p = 0.11). Two 3-week phases of periodized, progressive-overload WBV + ST training elicited gains in strength and power during a 15-week off-season program. Greatest improvements in performance tests occurred in the initial WBV phase. Implementing WBV in conjunction with ST appears to be more effective in the early phases of training.

Whole body vibration training--improving balance control and muscle endurance

Exercise combined with whole body vibration (WBV) is becoming increasingly popular, although additional effects of WBV in comparison to conventional exercises are still discussed controversially in literature. Heterogeneous findings are attributed to large differences in the training designs between WBV and "control" groups in regard to training volume, load and type. In order to separate the additional effects of WBV from the overall adaptations due to the intervention, in this study, a four-week WBV training setup was compared to a matched intervention program with identical training parameters in both training settings except for the exposure to WBV. In a repeated-measures matched-subject design, 38 participants were assigned to either the WBV group (VIB) or the equivalent training group (CON). Training duration, number of sets, rest periods and task-specific instructions were matched between the groups. Balance, jump height and local static muscle endurance were assessed before and after the training period. The statistical analysis revealed significant interaction effects of group×time for balance and local static muscle endurance (p<0.05). Hence, WBV caused an additional effect on balance control (pre vs. post VIB +13%, p<0.05 and CON +6%, p = 0.33) and local static muscle endurance (pre vs. post VIB +36%, p<0.05 and CON +11%, p = 0.49). The effect on jump height remained insignificant (pre vs. post VIB +3%, p = 0.25 and CON ±0%, p = 0.82). This study provides evidence for the additional effects of WBV above conventional exercise alone. As far as balance and muscle endurance of the lower leg are concerned, a training program that includes WBV can provide supplementary benefits in young and well-trained adults compared to an equivalent program that does not include WBV.

The influence of whole-body vibration on creatine kinase activity and jumping performance in young basketball players

PURPOSE

To quantify creatine kinase (CK) activity changes across time following an acute bout of whole-body vibration (WBV) and determine the association between changes in CK activity and jumping performance.

METHOD

Twenty-six elite young basketball players were assigned to 3 groups: 36-Hz and 46-Hz vibration groups (G36 and G46, respectively) and a control group. The study quantified CK activity and jumping performance following an acute bout of WBV at 2 vibration frequencies. Both WBV groups performed a protocol that consisted of 10 sets of 60 s of WBV while standing on a vibration plate in a quarter-squat position. CK activity, countermovement jumps (CMJ), and squat jumps (SJ) were measured immediately before and 24 hr and 48 hr after WBV. In addition, CMJ and SJ were also measured 5 min after WBV.

RESULTS

CK activity was statistically significantly increased 24 hr following WBV in G36 and G46. At 48 hr after WBV, CK activity was similar to baseline levels in G36 but remained statistically significantly above baseline levels in G46. The CMJ and SJ heights were statistically significantly decreased at 5 min following the protocol for both WBV groups. Overall, the changes in CK activity did not present a strong relationship with the changes in jump heights for any of the comparisons.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings suggest that WBV protocols with such characteristics may not cause excessive muscle damage and may partly explain why many WBV training studies have failed to elicit increases in strength performance.

Whole-body vibration versus eccentric training or a wait-and-see approach for chronic Achilles tendinopathy: a randomized clinical trial

STUDY DESIGN

Randomized clinical trial.

OBJECTIVES

To test the hypothesis that whole-body vibration training results in greater improvements in symptoms and pain, structural changes, and muscle flexibility and strength of the triceps surae muscle-tendon unit than those achieved with eccentric training or with a wait-and-see approach.

BACKGROUND

The potential use of vibration training for the treatment of Achilles tendinopathy has not been explored.

METHODS

Fifty-eight patients (mean age, 46.0 years) with Achilles tendinopathy were randomly assigned to a 12-week intervention using whole-body vibration training, eccentric training, or a wait-and-see approach. Pain, tendon structure and path, and muscle flexibility and strength were assessed at baseline and follow-up, and compared using mixed-factor analyses of variance.

RESULTS

Pain improvements at the midsection of the tendon were greater in the vibration- and eccentric-training groups than in the wait-and-see group (mean difference from the vibration-training group, -18.0; 95% confidence interval [CI]: -35.0, -1.1; mean difference from the eccentric-training group, -27.0; 95% CI: -50.9, -3.1). Improvements in pain at the musculotendinous junction were greater in the eccentric-training group than in the other groups (mean difference from the vibration-training group, -31.4; 95% CI: -60.7, -2.0; mean difference from the wait-and-see group, -50.2; 95% CI: -82.3, -18.1). Improvements in most participants were achieved in the vibration-training group, followed by the eccentric-training group.

CONCLUSION

Vibration training may be an alternative or a complementary treatment in patients who do not respond well to eccentric training, especially in those with insertional pain.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapy, level 2b-.

Effects of whole body vibration training on balance in adolescents with and without Down syndrome

The present study aimed to determine whether a whole body vibration training program (WBV) is able to improve static standing balance in adolescents with and without Down syndrome (DS). Thirty adolescents with DS aged 11-20 years (DSG) and 27 adolescent, age/sex matched, without DS (CG) joined the study. Participants of each group were divided into two comparable groups, those who performed WVB (in DSG: VDSG; in CG: VCG) and those who did not perform WVB (in DSG: nVDSG; in CG: nVCG). Static-standing-balance under four conditions (C1: open-eyes/fixed-foot-support; C2: closed-eyes/fixed-foot-support; C3: open-eyes/compliant-foot-support; C4: closed-eyes/compliant-foot-support) was examine, before and after a 20-week WBV training program. For balance study, Postural-Parameters (PPs), based on center of pressure (COP) oscillations (anterior/posterior and medial/lateral COP excursion and COP mean velocity), and PPs ratios among the four conditions were calculated. After WBV training, no significant differences were found in any parameter in the VCG and nVCG and neither in the nVDSG, but there was a decrease of mean values in the analyzed PPs under C4, with significant differences in medial/lateral COP excursion and COP mean velocity, and a significant decrease in the ratio C4/C1 of the mean velocity in VDSG. Therefore, WBV training had positive effects in the balance of DS adolescents although only under specific conditions, with vision and somatosensory input altered. The positive results of this study are encouraging and open a wide field of research, looking for the most efficient program for this population.

Therapeutic effect of whole body vibration on chronic knee osteoarthritis

Objective

To investigate the effect on pain reduction and strengthening of the whole body vibration (WBV) in chronic knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods

Patients were randomly divided into two groups: the study group (WBV with home based exercise) and control group (home based exercise only). They performed exercise and training for 8 weeks. Eleven patients in each group completed the study. Pain intensity was measured with the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), functional scales were measured with Korean Western Ontario McMaster score (KWOMAC) and Lysholm Scoring Scale (LSS), quadriceps strength was measured with isokinetic torque and isometric torque and dynamic balance was measured with the Biodex Stability System. These measurements were performed before training, at 1 month after training and at 2 months after training.

Results

NRS was significantly decreased in each group, and change of pain intensity was significantly larger in the study group than in the control group after treatment. Functional improvements in KWOMAC and LSS were found in both groups, but no significant differences between the groups after treatment. Dynamic balance, isokinetic strength of right quadriceps and isometric strengths of both quadriceps muscles improved in both groups, but no significant differences between the groups after treatment. Isokinetic strength of left quadriceps did not improve in both groups after treatment.

Conclusion

In chronic knee OA patients, WBV reduced pain intensity and increased strength of the right quadriceps and dynamic balance performance. In comparison with the home based exercise program, WBV was superior only in pain reduction and similarly effective in strengthening of the quadriceps muscle and balance improvement.