Whole-body vibration influences lower extremity circulatory and neurological function

Immediate effects of a vibrating foam roller on dorsiflexion rom, balance, and gait in stroke patients: a randomized controlled trial

The purpose of this study was to investigate the immediate effects of vibration foam rolling on dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM), balance, and gait in stroke patients. Thirty stroke patients volunteered to participate and were randomly assigned to the vibrating foam roller group (n=15) and the foam roller group (n=15). The vibrating foam roller group performed a 30-min foam roller exercise program, with participants subjected to vibration at 28 Hz. The foam roller group performed the same exercise program as the vibrating foam roller group, but without vibration. Dorsiflexion lunge test, limits of stability, and Timed Up and Go were used to evaluate dorsiflexion ROM, balance, and gait before and after each intervention. The results revealed that the vibration foam roller group showed significant differences in dorsiflexion ROM and gait after the intervention, while the foam roller group exhibited a significant difference only in dorsiflexion ROM (P<0.05). In comparisons between the vibration foam roller group and the foam roller group, significant differences were observed in dorsiflexion ROM and gait (P<0.05). However, there were no significant differences in balance, both before and after the intervention, as well as in the comparisons between the two groups (P>0.05). This study confirmed that a single-session vibrating foam roller exercise program improves dorsiflexion ROM and gait in stroke patients. Further studies with extended exercise program durations are needed to address limitations and explore long-term effects.

Effects of whole-body vibration or resistive-vibration exercise on blood clotting and related biomarkers: a systematic review

Whole-body vibration (WBV) and resistive vibration exercise (RVE) are utilized as countermeasures against bone loss, muscle wasting, and physical deconditioning. The safety of the interventions, in terms of the risk of inducing undesired blood clotting and venous thrombosis, is not clear. We therefore performed the present systematic review of the available scientific literature on the issue. The review was conducted following the guidelines by the Space Biomedicine Systematic Review Group, based on Cochrane review guidelines. The relevant context or environment of the studies was "ground-based environment"; space analogs or diseased conditions were not included. The search retrieved 801 studies; 77 articles were selected for further consideration after an initial screening. Thirty-three studies met the inclusion criteria. The main variables related to blood markers involved angiogenic and endothelial factors, fibrinolysis and coagulation markers, cytokine levels, inflammatory and plasma oxidative stress markers. Functional and hemodynamic markers involved blood pressure measurements, systemic vascular resistance, blood flow and microvascular and endothelial functions. The available evidence suggests neutral or potentially positive effects of short- and long-term interventions with WBV and RVE on variables related to blood coagulation, fibrinolysis, inflammatory status, oxidative stress, cardiovascular, microvascular and endothelial functions. No significant warning signs towards an increased risk of undesired clotting and venous thrombosis were identified. If confirmed by further studies, WBV and RVE could be part of the countermeasures aimed at preventing or attenuating the muscular and cardiovascular deconditioning associated with spaceflights, permanence on planetary habitats and ground-based simulations of microgravity.

Resting metabolic rate is increased after a series of whole body vibration in young men

Resting metabolic rate (RMR) is the largest component of total energy expenditure and increasing it can be of great importance in reducing excess body fatness. Whole body vibration (WBV) can affect energy expenditure during single session of WBV, but the effects of repeated WBV on resting metabolic rate have not been reported. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether a series of WBV would increase resting metabolism in young men. Thirty-two healthy men aged of 21-23 were recruited and randomly assigned to two 16-member groups: a group participating in the WBV intervention and a group without the intervention. The intervention lasted 2 weeks and WBV was performed 5 times a week. Diet, physical activity, body composition and resting metabolic rate were analyzed in the participants. In WBV group significantly increased resting oxygen uptake (p = 0.049) and consequently RMR (p = 0.035) after the intervention. Similar changes were not observed in the control group. This indicates that applied type of vibration in this study can be an addition to obesity therapy, in which, WBV can, among other beneficial metabolic effects, increase RMR and thus total energy expenditure.

Effects of whole body vibration on functional capacity and respiratory functions in individuals with stroke: A randomized controlled study

BACKGROUND

Management of respiratory-related functional problems using sensory rehabilitation strategies has been poorly researched in patients with stroke.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to investigate whether whole body vibration (WBV) training has an effect on functional capacity and respiratory functions in patients with stroke.

METHODS

In the randomized-controlled study, 28 participants were randomized into two groups: one receiving neurodevelopmental treatment (NDT; n = 13) and one receiving both NDT and WBV (NDT + WBV; n = 15). The primary outcome measures were 6-minute walking test (6MWT) and pulmonary function test which evaluate functional and respiratory capacity. Secondary outcome included the chest circumference measurement to evaluate the thoracic expansion ability.

RESULTS

Both groups showed positive significant changes in walking distance and maximum oxygen consumption volume (VO2max), inspiratory capacity, vital capacity and chest circumference measurement scores (p <  0.05). While the NDT +WBV group showed a significantly greater increase in walking distance and VO2max levels than the NDT group (p <  0.05), there were no significant group differences in respiratory function flow and volume parameters, and chest circumference measurement.

CONCLUSION

The addition of WBV training to the treatment program has some incremental benefits on increasing functional capacity and thoracic expansion, and rehabilitating respiratory dysfunction.

Acute Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Resting Metabolic Rate and Substrate Utilisation in Healthy Women

The aim of the study was to determine the acute effects of single-whole-body vibration (WBV) on resting metabolic rate (RMR) and carbohydrate−lipid profile of blood in young, healthy women. The participants, in a randomised controlled crossover study, participated in two trials: WBV and a vibration simulation (placebo). The WBV was performed in the prone position and cycloidal-oscillatory vibration was used. The RMR measurement (calorimetry) was performed: before the WBV, during WBV, immediately after the completion of WBV, and 1 h after the completion of WBV. For biochemical analyses, venous blood was collected. During WBV, there was a significant increase in RMR compared to baseline. Immediately after and 1 h following the end of the WBV, RMR was close to baseline levels (p > 0.05). The increased energy expenditure resulted from the increased utilisation of carbohydrates and proteins during the vibration. In the placebo condition, there were no significant changes over time in the level of the studied indices during calorimetry. The WBV had no significant effects on the level of glucose in the blood. The applied vibration did not significantly affect the concentration of the analysed lipid indices, which were within the physiological norms for all measurements. Results indicate the need for further research to establish the physiological mechanisms underlying the observed effects of WBV on resting metabolic rate.

Effect of whole-body vibration therapy on lower extremity function in subacute stroke patients

This study aimed to investigate the effect of whole-body vibration therapy on lower extremity function in subacute stroke patients. Subacute stroke patients who were able to undergo gait training were randomly divided into a vibration therapy group and a control group. All patients attended 20-min training sessions twice daily, 5 times a week for 2 weeks. Each session included 45 squats. The vibration group trained on a vibration platform and the control group trained on the ground. The degree of maximal isokinetic voluntary contraction torque was evaluated, and manual muscle tests of hip and knee flexion and extension were performed. The Berg Balance Scale, 10-m walk test, Timed Up and Go Test, and Functional Ambulation Category were used. A total of 38 patients, 20 in the vibration group and 18 in the control group, were included in the analysis. After the 2-week therapy, the vibration group showed significant improvements in lower extremity strength, balance, and gait performance. The vibration group showed significantly better performance on the Berg Balance Scale, 10-m walk test, and Functional Ambulation Category than the control group. There were no significant differences in maximal isokinetic voluntary contraction torque or manual muscle tests between the groups. Our results suggest that additional training with whole-body vibration may effectively improve the balance and gait performance of subacute stroke patients. Further studies on large populations are required to determine the therapy’s clinical efficacy.

Immediate Effect of Local Vibration Therapy for Sport-induced Fatigue Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine's Holistic Theory

Introduction

Vibration therapy has been widely used and published in alleviating muscle fatigue. However, reports on applying vibration therapy based on the holisitic theory of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) remains limited. This study is to evaluate the immediate effect of vibration therapy on exercise-induced muscle fatigue.

Methods

For this retrospective parallel controlled study, all data were from a previously approved and completed clinical trial. Participants (n=40) in the clinical trial included local Greco-Roman wrestling and Judo athletes in south China. The participants were equally randomly divided into the intervention group (n=20) and control group (n=20). The intervention group received a seven-week vibration intervention-based TCM holistic theory combined with conventional therapy, such as stretching, massage, and flapping, while the control group only received the conventional therapy. Surface electromyography (sEMG) of the lumbar segment of erector spinae was measured for each participant pre- and postintervention, and the two-point discrimination thresholds of the data were differentiated and compared with panel data analysis.

Results

For the control group, the pre- and postintervention sEMG measure showed no significant difference (p=0.333), whereas significant difference (p=0.004) was observed for the intervention group. Further, the pre- and postintervention two-point discrimination test also showed a significant difference (p=0.016) for the intervention group.

Discussion

The application of vibration therapy based on TCM holistic theory may have an immediate effect in reducing sport-induced muscle fatigue from intensive training. Future larger sample size and robust designed clinical trial is warranted to evaluate the long-term effect of the intervention.

The immediate effect of whole-body vibration on rectus abdominis muscle activity and cutaneous temperature: A randomized controlled trial

OBJECTIVES

To compare acute effects of isometric abdominal exercises performed with or without vibration on the electromyographic activity and cutaneous temperature in the abdominal region of physically active individuals.

METHODS

A randomized controlled crossover clinical trial was undertaken in thirty volunteers who completed one unique session of two different protocols of interventions apart from a week from each other, in a two-week study protocol. The subjects were randomly divided in to two groups of 15 volunteers; both were assigned to perform board exercise (30 s on the front, right and left lateral boards, with a rest interval of 2 min). The first group performed it on a vibrating platform at a frequency of 30 Hz for the first week, while the remaining participants executed the same exercise without stimulates vibration. In the second week the protocol was inverted. The outcome were surface electromyography (EMG) data for the rectus abdominis muscle (RAM) and cutaneous temperature (CT) of the abdominal region. Normality was accepted, and Student's t-tests were used to compare the measurements for dependents variables (P < 0.05).

RESULTS

There were no differences in RAM activation and CT between protocols with or without vibration (P > 0.05). CT increased (P = 0.001) after both the exercises with and without vibration.

CONCLUSION

The results suggest that there were no effects in cutaneous temperature or muscle activation through the use of vibration associated with isometric abdominal exercises.

Whole-body vibration modulates leg muscle reflex and blood perfusion among people with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled crossover trial

This study aimed to investigate the acute effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) on the reflex and non-reflex components of spastic hypertonia and intramuscular blood perfusion among individuals with chronic stroke. Thirty-six people with chronic stroke (age: 61.4 ± 6.9 years) participated in this randomized controlled cross-over study. Each participant underwent two testing conditions: static standing for 5 minutes with WBV (30 Hz, 1.5 mm) or no-vibration. We assessed the soleus H-reflex, shear modulus (ultrasound elastography) and vascular index (color power Doppler ultrasound) of the medial gastrocnemius (MG) muscle on either paretic or non-paretic side at baseline and every 1-min post-intervention up to 5 minutes. The results revealed a significant inhibition of the H/M ratio bilaterally for the WBV condition (absolute change on paretic side: 0.61 ± 0.35, p = 0.001; non-paretic side: 0.34 ± 0.23, p = 0.001), but not the control condition. The inhibition of H-reflex was sustained up to 4 minutes and 3 minutes on the paretic and non-paretic side, respectively. The vascular index of MG muscle was significantly increased only for the WBV condition [paretic: from 0.55 ± 0.07 to 1.08 ± 0.18 (p = 0.001); non-paretic: from 0.82 ± 0.09 to 1.01 ± 0.13 (p < 0.001)], which lasted for 3 minutes and 5 minutes, respectively. No significant change of the shear modulus in the MG muscle was observed, regardless of the testing condition. Based on our results, WBV had an acute effect on modulating spastic hypertonia dominated by hyperreflexia in people with chronic stroke and facilitating greater intramuscular blood perfusion. No acute effect on passive muscle stiffness was observed.

Sequential Pulse Compression's Effect on Blood Flow in the Lower-Extremity

CONTEXT

Several interventions are available to reduce the intensity and duration of the unwanted effects (eg, muscle soreness) associated with physical activity, such as massage, compression garments, and sequential pulse compression (SPC). Such interventions aim to increase blood flow to alleviate symptoms. However, there is a lack of evidence to support the use of SPC to alter total hemoglobin concentration (THb) in active individuals.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the acute effects of a single session of SPC on hemoglobin concentration compared with a control condition.

DESIGN

Single cohort, crossover design.

PARTICIPANTS

Thirty-four physically active and healthy participants (females = 12 and males = 22) completed the study.

INTERVENTIONS

The authors randomly assigned participants to first receive the experimental (SPC) or control condition. Measures were recorded precondition and postcondition. Participants returned to the laboratory to complete the second condition ≥24 hours after the first condition.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Relative changes in THb, deoxygenated hemoglobin, and oxygenated hemoglobin measures were recorded using near-infrared spectroscopy placed on the muscle belly of the medial gastrocnemius of the dominant limb.

RESULTS

SPC significantly increased THb (P < .001, d = 0.505) and oxygenated hemoglobin (P < .001, d = 0.745) change scores compared with the control condition. No statistical difference in deoxygenated hemoglobin change scores was found between the SPC and control conditions, but a medium effect size suggests potential biological significance (P = .06, d = 0.339).

CONCLUSIONS

Overall, SPC increases THb to the lower-extremity and may be a viable option in the management of muscle soreness related to physical activity.

Effect of Multi-Frequency Whole-Body Vibration on Muscle Activation, Metabolic Cost and Regional Tissue Oxygenation

Prolonged immobilization from a critical illness can result in significant muscle atrophy. Whole-body vibration (WBV) could potentially attenuate the issue of muscle atrophy; however, there exists no device that could potentially provide WBV in supine position that is suitable for critically ill patients. Hence, the purpose of this study was to develop a new wearable suit, called therapeutic vibration device (TVD), that can provide WBV in supine position and test its effects on physiologic markers of physical activity including muscle activation, oxygen consumption (VO₂), and regional hemoglobin oxygen saturation (rSO₂). The prototype TVD delivered multi-frequency WBV axially to 19 healthy participants in supine position for 10 minutes simultaneously at 25 Hz/4.2 g_rms on the feet and 15 Hz/0.7 g_rms on the shoulders. Muscle activation was recorded by electromyography (EMG), VO₂ was measured by indirect calorimetry and rSO₂ was recorded by near-infrared spectroscopy. Recordings were collected from each participant from multiple body locations, on three separate days, at baseline and during the intervention. Acceleration was also recorded to gain insight into transmissibility and coherence. Repeated-measures ANOVA using Bonferroni correction revealed that the muscle activity significantly increased by 4% - 62% (p < 0.05), VO₂ improved by 22.3% (p < 0.05) and rSO₂ increased by 1.4% - 4.5% (p < 0.05) compared to baseline. WBV provided by the TVD is capable of producing physiologic responses consistent with mild physical activity. Such effects could potentially be valuable as an adjunct to physical therapy for early mobilization to prevent atrophy occurring from prolonged immobilization.

Evaluation of the temperature of posterior lower limbs skin during the whole body vibration measured by infrared thermography: Cross-sectional study analysis using linear mixed effect model

BACKGROUND

Whole body vibration exercise (WBVE) has been shown to improve muscular strength and power, and increase peripheral blood flow. The aim of this study was to evaluate the behavior of the skin temperature (Tsk) on regions of the lower limbs from an acute bout of WBVE.

METHODS AND FINDINGS

Cross-sectional study approved by local ethics committee (Certificado de Apresentação para Apreciação Ética-CAAE-19826413.8.0000.5259) and Trial registration (Registro Brasileiro de Ensaios Clínicos-REBEC-RBR-738wng). Using Infrared thermography (IRT), Tsk and thermal symmetry of the posterior lower extremities (thigh, knee, calf and heel) were examined in 19 healthy participants. IRT was assessed during 60-second WBVE exposures of 0, 30 and 50 Hz. From the adjusted linear mixed effects model, vibration frequency, time and regions of the lower extremity were significant (p<0.001). However, the variable laterality was not significant (p = 0.067) and was excluded from the adjusted statistical model. The adjusted model was significant (p<0.00001) and all variables in the model were significant (p<0.01) indicating that Tsk decreases with time, independently of the vibration frequency. The value of the Pseudo-R-Squared for the model was 0.8376. The presented mathematical model of the current study may be useful to justify the patterns observed for all vibration frequencies between and 0 and 50 Hz. The main limitations of the study were the reduced time of the intervention and not having evaluated other regions of the body.

CONCLUSIONS

The acute exposure of 60-second mechanical vibration has effect on the behavior of Tsk of the posterior region of the lower limbs, which is likely to be associated with a decrease on the blood flow due to WBVE. It is speculated that during WBVE a greater supply of blood is required where the body responds by shunting blood flow from the skin to working muscle in the first seconds of exercise. Further investigative work is required to verify this hypothesis.

Whole Body Vibration Methods with Survivors of Polio

The purpose of the original study was to examine the use of whole body vibration (WBV) on polio survivors with and without post-polio syndrome as a form of weight bearing exercise. The goal of this article is to highlight the strengths, limitations, and applications of the method used. Fifteen participants completed two intervention blocks with a wash-out period in between the blocks. Each block consisted of twice a week (four weeks) WBV interventions, progressing from 10 to 20 min per session. Low intensity (peak to peak displacement 4.53 mm, frequency 24 Hz, g force 2.21) and higher intensity (peak to peak displacement 8.82 mm, frequency 35 Hz, g force 2.76) WBV blocks were used. Pain severity significantly improved in both groups following higher intensity vibration. Walking speed significantly improved in the group who participated in higher intensity intervention first. No study-related adverse events occurred. Even though this population can be at risk of developing overuse-related muscle weakness, fatigue, or pain from excessive physical activity or exercise, the vibration intensity levels utilized did not cause significant muscle weakness, pain, fatigue, or sleep disturbances. Therefore, WBV appears to provide a safe method of weight bearing exercise for this population. Limitations included the lack of measurement of reflexes, muscular activity, or circulation, the difficulty in participant recruitment, and insufficient strength of some participants to stand in recommended position. Strengths included a standard, safe protocol with intentional monitoring of symptoms and the heterogeneity of the participants in their physical abilities. An application of the methods is the home use of WBV to reduce the barriers associated with going to a facility for weight bearing exercise for longer term interventions, and benefits for conditions such as osteoporosis, particularly for aging adults with mobility difficulties due to paralysis or weakness. Presented method may serve as a starting point in future studies.

Whole-body vibration in the reduction of the cellulite

OBJECTIVE

Evaluate the effects of the whole body vibration in improving of cellulite in the women's gluteal region.

METHODS

Controlled clinical trial performed with 42 women, with cellulite in the gluteal region, detected by means of clinical examination. After evaluation, the women were divided into two groups: Whole-Body Vibration (WBV_G) and control (C_G). The evaluations were performed at the beginning and the end of 10 sessions and superficial skin temperature, perimetry in the gluteal region, analysis of body contouring, analysis of improvement by blind reviewers and instrument of satisfaction, by numeric scale were investigated.

RESULTS

In the thermographic analysis, the WBV_G obtained significant increase of superficial skin temperature on the right (p = 0.02) and left (p = 0.02) gluteal region. There was no difference in intra- and intergroups in perimetry and the analysis of body contour. The WBV_G obtained a higher percentage of improvement by assessment of the blind reviewers (p = 0.003) and greater aesthetics satisfaction (p = 0.006), when compared to C_G.

CONCLUSION

WBV provided an improvement in the aspect of the cellulite when assessed by blind reviewers and greater participants' satisfaction, providing a significant increase in the superficial skin temperature in the gluteal region.

Whole body vibration of different frequencies inhibits H-reflex but does not affect voluntary activation

This study aimed to investigate the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) at a frequency spectrum from 20 to 50 Hz on the Hoffmann (H) reflex and the voluntary motor output of ankle plantar-flexor muscles. A single-group (n: 8), repeated measures design was adopted with four conditions: standing (no vibration), 20, 35 and 50 Hz, each lasting one minute. H-reflex of the soleus muscle, maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and central activation ratio (CAR) of the plantar-flexors were evaluated before, 1 and 5 min after each frequency condition. H-reflex decreased by 36.7% at 20 Hz, by 28% at 35 Hz, and by 34.8% at 50 Hz after one minute from WBV compared to baseline. Neither MVC nor CAR changed after WBV at all frequency conditions. The short-term, acute inhibition of the H-reflex after WBV at 20, 35 and 50 Hz suggested that decreased excitability of spinal motoneurons is not frequency dependent. On the other hand, the lack of vibration induced effects on MVC and CAR indicated that a 1-min WBV stimulus is not sufficient to affect the voluntary motor output.

Results From a Pilot Study of Handheld Vibration: Exercise Intervention Reduces Upper-Limb Dysfunction and Fatigue in Breast Cancer Patients Undergoing Radiotherapy: VibBRa Study

Purpose:

Although there is evidence that breast cancer patients benefit from exercising during treatment, exercising during radiotherapy and especially the effects on upper-limb dysfunctions have been infrequently assessed. Therefore, we primarily aimed to confirm our interventions’ feasibility and secondarily aimed to affect upper-limb dysfunctions and fatigue.

Methods:

Twenty-two breast cancer patients scheduled for radiotherapy were allocated to an intervention (IG) or a passive control group (CG) as they preferred. IG exercised 3×/week during 6 weeks of radiotherapy: cycling endurance, handheld vibration, and balance training. We documented adverse events and training compliance (feasibility) and assessed the range of shoulder motion (ROM), isometric hand grip strength, vibration sense on the first metacarpophalangeal joint of the affected upper limb, and fatigue.

Results:

We observed no adverse events and a training compliance of 98 %. IG’s ROM improved significantly (abduction: 11°; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5 to 20; external rotation: 5°, 95% CI 0 to 10), as did the hand grip strength (1.6 kg, 95% CI −0.6 to 3.1), while CG’s ROM did not change. CG’s vibration sense worsened (−1.0 points, 95% CI −1.5 to −0.5), while IG’s remained stable. Changes in general fatigue levels between IG (−2.0 points, 95% CI −3.0 to −1.0) and CG (0.5 points, 95% CI −1.0 to 4.5) revealed significant differences (P = .008)

Conclusions:

Our intervention proved to be feasible and provides novel findings: it reduced fatigue levels and interestingly, handheld vibration exercises improved upper-limb function due to shoulder ROM, hand grip strength, and vibration sense.

Metabolic effect of bodyweight whole-body vibration in a 20-min exercise session: A crossover study using verified vibration stimulus

The ability of whole body vibration (WBV) to increase energy expenditure (EE) has been investigated to some extent in the past using short-term single exercises or sets of single exercises. However, the current practice in WBV training for fitness is based on the execution of multiple exercises during a WBV training session for a period of at least 20 min; nevertheless, very limited and inconsistent data are available on EE during long term WBV training session. This crossover study was designed to demonstrate, in an adequately powered sample of participants, the ability of WBV to increase the metabolic cost of exercise vs. no vibration over the time span of a typical WBV session for fitness (20 min). Twenty-two physically active young males exercised on a vibration platform (three identical sets of six different exercises) using an accelerometer-verified vibration stimulus in both the WBV and no vibration condition. Oxygen consumption was measured with indirect calorimetry and expressed as area under the curve (O_2(AUC)). Results showed that, in the overall 20-min training session, WBV increased both the O_2(AUC) and the estimated EE vs. no vibration by about 22% and 20%, respectively (P<0.001 for both, partial eta squared [η²] ≥0.35) as well as the metabolic equivalent of task (+5.5%, P = 0.043; η² = 0.02) and the rate of perceived exertion (+13%, P<0.001; ŋ² = 0.16). Results demonstrated that vibration is able to significantly increase the metabolic cost of exercise in a 20-min WBV training session.

Effects of whole body vibration on muscle spasticity for people with central nervous system disorders: a systematic review

Objectives:

To examine the effects of whole-body vibration on spasticity among people with central nervous system disorders.

Methods:

Electronic searches were conducted using CINAHL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Physiotherapy Evidence Database, PubMed, PsycINFO, SPORTDiscus and Scopus to identify randomized controlled trials that investigated the effect of whole-body vibration on spasticity among people with central nervous system disorders (last search in August 2015). The methodological quality and level of evidence were rated using the PEDro scale and guidelines set by the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine.

Results:

Nine trials with totally 266 subjects (three in cerebral palsy, one in multiple sclerosis, one in spinocerebellar ataxia, and four in stroke) fulfilled all selection criteria. One study was level 1b (PEDro⩾6 and sample size>50) and eight were level 2b (PEDro<6 or sample size ⩽50). All three cerebral palsy trials (level 2b) reported some beneficial effects of whole-body vibration on reducing leg muscle spasticity. Otherwise, the results revealed no consistent benefits on spasticity in other neurological conditions studied. There is little evidence that change in spasticity was related to change in functional performance. The optimal protocol could not be identified. Many reviewed studies were limited by weak methodological and reporting quality. Adverse events were minor and rare.

Conclusion:

Whole-body vibration may be useful in reducing leg muscle spasticity in cerebral palsy but this needs to be verified by future high quality trials. There is insufficient evidence to support or refute the notion that whole-body vibration can reduce spasticity in stroke, spinocerebellar ataxia or multiple sclerosis.

Effect of whole-body vibration on reduction of bone loss and fall prevention in postmenopausal women: a meta-analysis and systematic review

Background

To examine whole-body vibration (WBV) effect on bone mineral density (BMD) and fall prevention in postmenopausal women, we performed a meta-analysis and systematic review of prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing change in BMD of the femoral neck and lumbar spine and related factors of falls between WBV group and control group.

Methods

EMBASE, PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ISI Web of Science, and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) were searched up to April 2015; search strategy was used as follows: (vibration) AND (osteoporo* OR muscle* OR bone mineral density OR BMD). All prospective randomized controlled trials comparing related factors of falls and BMD change in the femoral neck and lumbar spine between WBV group and control group were retrieved.

Results

Eight of 3599 studies with 1014 patients were included, 477 in the WBV group, and 537 in the control group. We found that there was no significant difference in all magnitude groups of the femoral neck (N = 936, WMD: 0.00 (–0.00, 0.01); p = 0.18). A statistical significance showed in the all magnitude groups (N = 1014, WMD: 0.01 (0.00, 0.01); p = 0.01) and low-magnitude group (N = 838, WMD: 0.01 (0.00, 0.01); p = 0.007) of the lumbar spine. No significant difference was found in high-magnitude group of the lumbar spine (N = 176, WMD: 0.00 (−0.01, 0.02); p = 0.47), low-magnitude group (N = 838, WMD: 0.00 (−0.00, 0.00); p = 0.92) and high-magnitude group (N = 98, WMD: 0.02 (−0.00, 0.05); p = 0.06) of the femoral neck. All the studies provided data of related factors of falls such as strength of the lower limb, balance, and fall rate reported effectiveness of WBV therapy. In addition, no complication was reported.

Conclusions

Low-magnitude whole-body vibration therapy can provide a significant improvement in reducing bone loss in the lumbar spine in postmenopausal women. Moreover, whole-body vibration can be used as an intervention for fall prevention.

Observation of vasculature alternation by intense pulsed light combined with physicochemical methods

Intense pulsed light (IPL) with low energy insufficient to completely destroy a vasculature was applied to rabbit ears to investigate vasculature alteration. Glycerol was combined with IPL to enhance the transfer efficacy of IPL energy. Both trans-illumination and laser speckle contrast images were obtained and analyzed after treatment. The application of IPL and glycerol combination induced vasodilation and improvement in blood flow. Moreover, such phenomenon was maintained over time. IPL may be applied to treat blood circulatory diseases by inducing vasodilation and to improve blood flow.

Whole-body vibration and blood flow and muscle oxygenation: a meta-analysis

CONTEXT

The use and popularity of whole-body vibration (WBV) has increased in recent years, but there is a lack of consensus in the literature about the effectiveness of the treatment.

OBJECTIVE

To quantitatively examine the effects of WBV on muscle oxygenation and peripheral blood flow in healthy adults.

DATA SOURCES

We searched Web of Science and PubMed databases and reference lists from relevant articles using the key terms whole body vibration, whole-body vibration, WBV, blood flow, peripheral blood flow, oxygenation, muscle oxygenation, circulation, circulatory, near infrared spectroscopy, NIRS, and power Doppler. Key terms were searched using single word and combination searches. No date range was specified.

STUDY SELECTION

Criteria for inclusion were (1) use of a commercially available WBV device, (2) a human research model, (3) a pre-WBV condition and at least 1 WBV experimental condition, and (4) reporting of unstandardized means and standard deviations of muscle oxygenation or peripheral blood flow.

DATA EXTRACTION

Means, standard deviations, and sample sizes were extracted from the text, tables, and figures of included studies. A total of 35 and 90 data points were extracted for the muscle-oxygenation and blood-flow meta-analyses, respectively. Data for each meta-analysis were combined and analyzed using meta-analysis software. Weighted, random-effects meta-analyses using the Hedges g metric were completed for muscle oxygenation and blood flow. We then conducted follow-up analyses using the moderator variables of vibration type, vibration time, vibration frequency, measurement location, and sample type.

DATA SYNTHESIS

We found 18 potential articles. Further examination yielded 10 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Whole-body vibration was shown to positively influence peripheral blood flow. Additionally, the moderators of vibration type and frequency altered the influence of WBV on blood flow. Overall, WBV did not alter muscle oxygenation; however, when the measurement site was considered, muscle oxygenation increased or decreased depending on the location.

CONCLUSIONS

Acute bouts of WBV increase peripheral blood flow but do not alter skeletal muscle oxygenation. Vibration type appears to be the most important factor influencing both muscle oxygenation and peripheral blood flow.

Whole body vibration at different exposure frequencies: infrared thermography and physiological effects

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) on physiological parameters, cutaneous temperature, tactile sensitivity, and balance. Twenty-four healthy adults (25.3 ± 2.6 years) participated in four WBV sessions. They spent 15 minutes on a vibration platform in the vertical mode at four different frequencies (31, 35, 40, and 44 Hz) with 1 mm of amplitude. All variables were measured before and after WBV exposure. Pressure sensation in five anatomical regions and both feet was determined using Von Frey monofilaments. Postural sway was measured using a force plate. Cutaneous temperature was obtained with an infrared camera. WBV influences the discharge of the skin touch-pressure receptors, decreasing sensitivity at all measured frequencies and foot regions (P ≤ 0.05). Regarding balance, no differences were found after 20 minutes of WBV at frequencies of 31 and 35 Hz. At 40 and 44 Hz, participants showed higher anterior-posterior center of pressure (COP) velocity and length. The cutaneous temperature of the lower limbs decreased during and 10 minutes after WBV. WBV decreases touch-pressure sensitivity at all measured frequencies 10 min after exposure. This may be related to the impaired balance at higher frequencies since these variables have a role in maintaining postural stability. Vasoconstriction might explain the decreased lower limb temperature.

The effect of a single session of whole-body vibration training in recreationally active men on the excitability of the central and peripheral nervous system

Vibration training has become a popular method used in professional sports and recreation. In this study, we examined the effect of whole-body vibration training on the central nervous system and muscle excitability in a group of 28 active men. Subjects were assigned randomly to one of two experimental groups with different variables of vibrations. The chronaximetry method was used to evaluate the effect of a single session of whole-body vibration training on the excitability of the rectus femoris and brachioradialis muscles. The examination of the fusing and flickering frequencies of the light stimulus was performed. An increase in the excitability of the quadriceps femoris muscle due to low intensity vibrations (20 Hz frequency, 2 mm amplitude) was noted, and a return to the initial values was observed 30 min after the application of vibration. High intensity vibrations (60 Hz frequency, 4 mm amplitude) caused elongations of the chronaxy time; however, these differences were not statistically significant. Neither a low intensity vibration amplitude of 2 mm (frequency of 20 Hz) nor a high intensity vibration amplitude of 4 mm (frequency of 60 Hz) caused a change in the excitability of the central nervous system, as revealed by the average frequency of the fusing and flickering of the light stimulus. A single session of high intensity whole-body vibration did not significantly decrease the excitability of the peripheral nervous system while the central nervous system did not seem to be affected.

Effects of real and sham whole-body mechanical vibration on spinal excitability at rest and during muscle contraction

We examined the effects of whole-body mechanical vibration (WBV) on indices of motoneuronal excitability at rest and during muscle contraction in healthy humans. Real and sham WBV at 30 Hz had no effect on reflexes measured during muscle contraction. Real WBV at 30 and 50 Hz depressed the H-reflex ∼45%. These depressions diminished across the five inter-bout rest intervals. The depression converted to 27% and 7% facilitation over the 15-min long recovery period following real WBV at 30 and 50 Hz, respectively. The depression, measured during the inter-bout rest, correlated r = 0.48 (P = 0.007) with the subsequent facilitation, measured during the follow-up. The depression produced by sham vs real WBV was significant but less (23%), recovered faster, and the facilitation was absent in the 15-min long follow-up period. WBV produced time-varying depression followed by facilitation of the H-reflex at rest. A lack of change in volitional wave suggests that WBV did not affect the efferent neural drive.

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.