Whole body vibration versus magnetic therapy on bone mineral density in elderly osteoporotic individuals. Whole-Body Vibration Combined with Treadmill Training Improves Walking Performance in Post-Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial The interrater and intrarater reliability of the Modified Ashworth Scale in the assessment of muscle spasticity: limb and muscle group effect. Effect of the vibration board on the strength of ankle dorsal and plantar flexor muscles: a preliminary randomized controlled study. Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Balance Using Posturography and Balance Tests in Postmenopausal Women Low resonance frequency vibration affects strength of paretic and non-paretic leg differently in patients with stroke. Long-Term Effects of 6-Week Whole-Body Vibration on Balance Recovery and Activities of Daily Living in the Postacute Phase of Stroke: A Randomized, Controlled Trial Does whole-body vibration training in the horizontal direction have effects on motor function and balance of chronic stroke survivors? A preliminary study Effect of Training with Whole Body Vibration on the Sitting Balance of Stroke Patients No specific effect of whole-body vibration training in chronic stroke: a double-blind randomized controlled study. Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Muscle Architecture, Muscle Strength, and Balance in Stroke Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Standing Balance and Muscle Strength in Children with Down Syndrome Adding whole body vibration to preconditioning squat exercise increases cycling sprint performance. In Patients with Established RA, Positive Effects of a Randomised Three Month WBV Therapy Intervention on Functional Ability, Bone Mineral Density and Fatigue Are Sustained for up to Six Months Increased Bone Resorption in the Proximal Femur in Patients with Hemiplegia Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Explosive Strength and Postural Control in Young Female Athletes Whole-Body Vibration Intensities in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Effects of a single session of whole body vibration on ankle plantarflexion spasticity and gait performance in patients with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial Improvement in Running Economy After 8 Weeks of Whole-Body Vibration Training The effects of whole-body vibration therapy on bone turnover, muscle strength, motor function, and spasticity in chronic stroke: a randomized controlled trial. One session of whole body vibration increases voluntary muscle strength transiently in patients with stroke 3-week whole body vibration does not improve gait function in mildly affected multiple sclerosis patients—a randomized controlled trial Effect of whole-body vibration on quadriceps spasticity in individuals with spastic hypertonia due to spinal cord injury. Effects of intensive whole-body vibration training on muscle strength and balance in adults with chronic stroke: a randomized controlled pilot study. Whole-body vibration has no effect on neuromotor function and falls in chronic stroke.
BACKGROUND Osteoporosis usually develops gradually and progresses without significant signs and symptoms . It is one of the most common musculoskeletal conditions associated with aging . OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects of whole body vibration ( WBV ) or magnetic therapy in addition to st and ard pharmacological treatment on bone mineral density ( BMD ) in elderly individuals being treated for osteoporosis . METHODS Eighty-five participants , 60 - 75 years of age , were r and omly divided into three groups . All three groups received the same st and ard pharmacological treatment comprised of vitamin D , calcium , and alendronate sodium . In Group I , thirty participants were also exposed to WBV for 25 minutes in each session with two sessions per week for 4 months . In Group II , thirty participants were exposed to magnetic therapy for 50 minutes in each session with two sessions per week for 4 months . In Group III , twenty-five participants received only pharmacological treatment . Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was used to measure BMD of the lumbar spine and femoral heads before and after interventions . Venus blood sample was drawn for analysis of calcium and vitamin D. RESULTS An ANOVA test detected significant ( p < 0.05 ) differences in BMD after treatment among the three groups with no significant difference was detected between patients receiving WBV and magnetic therapy . Statistical t-tests detected significant ( p < 0.05 ) increases in BMD after application of WBV or magnetic therapy in combination with pharmacological treatment , but no significant increase after pharmacological treatment alone . CONCLUSIONS Addition of either WBV or magnetic therapy to st and ard pharmacological treatment for osteoporosis significantly increased BMD in elderly subjects . No significant difference in effectiveness was detected between these two alternative therapy modalities . Consequently , either WBV or magnetic therapy could be effectively applied in conjunction with pharmacological treatment to increase BMD in elderly osteoporotic patients Background Stroke is characterized by an asymmetrical gait pattern that causes poor stability and reduces overall activity levels . The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of whole-body vibration combined with treadmill training ( WBV-TT ) on walking performance in patients with chronic stroke . Material / Methods Thirty ambulatory chronic stroke patients were r and omly allocated to the WBV-TT group or the treadmill training ( TT ) group . The participants in the WBV-TT group performed 6 types of exercises on a vibrating platform for 4.5 minutes and then walked on the treadmill for 20 minutes . The participants in the TT group conducted the same exercise on a platform without vibration and then walked on the treadmill in the same manner . The vibration lasted for 45 seconds in each exercise , and the intervention was performed 3 times weekly for 6 weeks . The treadmill walking speed was gradually increased by 5 % in both groups . The outcome measures included the temporospatial parameter of gait ( GAITRite ® ) and 6-minute walk test . Results The WBV-TT group showed significant improvements in walking performance with respect to walking speed , cadence , step length , stride length , single-limb support , double-limb support , and 6-minute walk test compared with baseline ( p<0.05 ) . Significant improvements were also seen in walking speed , step length , stride length , and double-limb support compared with the TT group ( p<0.05 ) . Conclusions These findings indicate that WBV-TT is more effective than TT for improving walking performance of patients with chronic stroke The Modified Ashworth Scale ( MAS ) is a clinical scale used to assess muscle spasticity . While the evidence indicates that the reliability of the MAS is better in the upper limb and in certain distal muscle groups , no investigation has compared the effect of limbs and muscle groups on the MAS reliability . This study aim ed to evaluate the effect of limb and muscle group on the reliability of the MAS in patients with spastic hemiplegia . Thirty subjects with upper and lower limb muscle spasticity were recruited for this trial . Two female experienced physiotherapists participated in this examination of reliability , and rated each patient in a r and omized order in a single session . For the intrarater reliability , the second rater repeated the test 1 week later . Shoulder adductor , elbow flexor , wrist flexor , hip adductor , knee extensor , and ankle plantar flexor were tested on the hemiplegic side . Results demonstrated moderate inter ( kappa=0.514 , SE=0.046 , p < 0.001 ) and intrarater ( kappa=0.590 , SE=0.051 , p<0.001 ) reliability . For the inter and intrarater reliability , the agreement obtained for the upper and lower limb was similar . In the upper limb , the agreement between raters on the distal wrist flexor was significantly higher than the agreement on the proximal shoulder adductor . In the lower limb , there was a similar agreement between raters on the distal ankle plantar flexor and proximal hip adductor . For within rater , the agreement on the proximal and distal muscles of both limbs was not statistically significant . The Modified Ashworth Scale had moderate reliability . The limbs had no effect on the reliability . The agreement on distal wrist flexor in the upper limb was significantly higher between rater than in the proximal shoulder adductor . The agreement obtained with the MAS was not good , which questions the validity of the measurements Aim of this preliminary work is to study the effects of the vibration board on the strength of dorsal and plantar flexor muscles of the ankle through a r and omized and controlled observation . Sixteen sedentary right-h and ed females , ranged from 20 to 30 years of age , were selected ; they were not affected by previous ankle sprains and were divided into two r and omized groups . The study group followed a vibration board training in the orthostatic position with a 60 degrees flexion of the knee in order to direct its mechanical impulses to the inferior limbs . Each patient of the study group performed daily , for 2 weeks , 10 repetitions that lasted 1 minute each ( 25 hertz of frequency ) . The control group followed a training protocol including 10 daily sessions for 2 weeks . Each session included 3 series of 10 repetitions of flexi-extension of the foot versus an opposite resistance of an elastic b and , 60 centimetres long , that was stretched till 100 cm . Both groups were tested before and after these training programmes by Biodex isokinetic dynamometer in order to quantify the strength of the plantar and dorsal flexor muscles of the dominant ankle . Peak torque , power and total work of the dorsal and plantar flexor muscles were assessed . A power test at an angular velocity of 60 degrees/sec for five repetitions and a resistance test at an angular velocity of 180 degrees/sec . for 20 repetitions were performed . After the final isokinetic test , the results were su bmi tted to a statistic evaluation ( T test of Student ) in order to analyze any possible significant differences ( p < 0.05 ) among the initial and final values before and after the treatment . The results of the study group compared to the control group showed a significant increase in the power of the dorsal flexor muscles at an angular velocity of 60 degrees/sec and in the peak torque , power and total work of the plantar flexor muscles at an angular velocity of 60 degrees/sec and 180 degrees/sec . We conclude that the use of the vibration board causes a continuous proprioceptive stimulation which increases neuromuscular receptivity determining a prevailing reinforcement of the plantar flexor muscles of the ankle Objective The authors examined the impacts of whole-body vibration ( WBV ) applications on balance control in postmenopausal women using clinical balance tests and computerized static posturography . Design Patients were r and omly divided into two groups and treated with WBV and /or home-based balance coordination exercises ( BCEs ) . Patients in the WBV-BCE group were asked to st and on the platform in st and ing , squat , and deep squat positions . During each position , 30-sec vibration ( 30–35 Hz ) and 60-sec rest periods were applied twice ( 20 sessions in total ) . The BCE program was performed by subjects twice per day . All subjects were evaluated before and after treatment using the Timed Up and Go test and the Berg Balance Scale ( BBS ) . The fall index and the Fourier index were assessed via computerized static posturography . Results Sixty patients were recruited for the study , but only 42 patients ( 21 in each group ) completed it .  Fall index and the total values of the Fourier index 2–4 and Fourier index 5–6 frequencies indicated a significant improvement in the WBV-BCE group ( P < 0.05 ) . Both groups showed significant improvements in the Berg Balance Scale and Timed Up and Go test ( P < 0.05 ) . Conclusions The ease of applying WBV furthermore supports its inclusion in daily treatment protocol s for age-related decline in balance performance in women and improved balance and mobility measures associated with increased fall risk The objective of the study was to investigate the chronic effect of low frequency whole body vibration ( WBV ) on isometric and eccentric strength of knee extensors with different force exertion capacity . It was hypothesized that ( 1 ) four-week WBV intervention with the low frequency domain would enhance muscle strength and ( 2 ) the improvement would be more pronounced in the weaker muscle . To test our hypothesis twenty patients with acute stroke were recruited . Ten patients were r and omly assigned to vibration and the remaining ten patients served for control . The patients in the vibration group received WBV with 20 Hz frequency three times per week st and ing on a vibration platform in half squat position meanwhile flexing and extending the joints and placing the weight from one leg to the other . Knee extensor strength was determined under isometric and eccentric contraction before and after WBV intervention . Myoelectrical activity ( EMG ) of the vastus lateralis muscle was also measured . Significant improvement was revealed in the vibration group only . The maximum isometric torque and EMG activity increased significantly for both paretic and non-paretic leg , but the improvement was threefold greater in the vibration group . No significant alteration was found in rate of torque development . Maximum eccentric torque and EMG increased significantly for the paretic leg only . Mechanical work enhanced significantly in the paretic side only . The results of our study indicate that the selection of the effective vibration frequency depends upon the physical condition of neuromuscular system . Low vibration frequency intervention can increase the strength in weak muscles due to neuromuscular impairment and restricted physical activity Background and Purpose — The long-term effects of 6-weeks whole-body vibration , as a novel method of somatosensory stimulation , on postural control and activities of daily living were compared with those of 6 weeks of exercise therapy on music of the same intensity in the postacute phase of stroke . Methods — Fifty-three patients with moderate to severe functional disabilities were r and omized within 6 weeks poststroke and within 3 days after admission to a rehabilitation center to either whole-body vibration or exercise therapy on music in addition to a regular inpatient rehabilitation program . The whole-body vibration group received 4 × 45-second stimulation on the Galileo 900 ( 30-Hz frontal plane oscillations of 3-mm amplitude ) for 5 days per week during 6 weeks . The exercise therapy on music group received the same amount of exercise therapy on music . Outcome variables included the Berg Balance Scale , Trunk Control Test , Rivermead Mobility Index , Barthel Index , Functional Ambulation Categories , Motricity Index , and somatosensory threshold at 0 , 6 , and 12 weeks follow up . Results — At baseline , both groups were comparable in terms of prognostic factors and outcome measures . Both at 6 and 12 weeks follow up , no clinical ly relevant or statistical differences in outcome were observed between the groups . No side effects were reported . Conclusions — Daily sessions of whole-body vibration during 6 weeks are not more effective in terms of recovery of balance and activities of daily living than the same amount of exercise therapy on music in the postacute phase of stroke [ Purpose ] The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of whole-body vibration ( WBV ) in the horizontal direction on the motor function and balance of chronic stroke survivors . [ Subjects and Methods ] This study was a r and omized controlled trial . Twenty-one individuals with chronic stroke from an inpatient rehabilitation center participated in the study . The participants were allocated to either the WBV training group or the control group . The WBV training group ( n = 12 ) received whole-body vibration delivered in the horizontal direction ( 15 min/day , 3 times/week , 6 wks ) followed by conventional rehabilitation ( 30 min/day , 5 times/week , 6 wks ) ; the control group ( n = 9 ) received conventional rehabilitation only ( 30 min/day , 5 times/week , 6 wks ) . Motor function was measured by using the Fugl-Meyer assessment , and balance was measured by using the Berg Balance Scale ( BBS ) and the Timed Up and Go ( TUG ) test before and after the interventions . [ Results ] After the interventions , all variables improved significantly compared with the baseline values in the WBV training group . In the control group , no significant improvements in any variables were noted . In addition , the BBS score in the WBV training group increased significantly compared with that in the control group . [ Conclusion ] WBV training with whole-body vibration delivered in the horizontal direction may be a potential intervention for improvement of motor function and balance in patients who previously experienced a stroke [ Purpose ] The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of task-oriented training with whole body vibration ( WBV ) on the sitting balance of stroke patients . [ Subjects ] The subjects were 30 stroke patients who were r and omly divided into experimental ( n1=15 ) and control ( n2=15 ) groups . [ Methods ] Subjects in both groups received general training five times per week . Subjects in the experimental group practice d an additional task-oriented training program with WBV , which was performed for 15 minutes , five times per week , for four weeks . The center of pressure ( COP ) path length and average velocity were used to assess subjects static sitting balance , and the Modified Functional Reach Test ( MFRT ) was used to assess their dynamic sitting balance . The paired t-test was performed to test the significance of differences between before and after the intervention . The independent t-test was conducted to test the significance of differences between the groups . [ Results ] Following the intervention , the experimental group showed a significant change in MFRT . [ Conclusion ] The results of this study suggest that task-oriented training with WBV is feasible and efficacious for stroke patients OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effects of whole-body vibration ( WBV ) training in individuals after stroke . DESIGN A double-blind r and omized controlled study with assessment s pre- and posttraining . SETTING A university hospital rehabilitation department . PARTICIPANTS Participants ( N=31 ; mean age ± SD , 62±7 y ; 6 - 101 mo poststroke ) were r and omized to an intervention group or a control group . INTERVENTIONS Supervised WBV training ( 2 sessions/wk for 6wk ; 12 repetitions of 40 - 60s WBV per session ) . The intervention group trained on a vibrating platform with a conventional amplitude ( 3.75 mm ) and the control group on a " placebo " vibrating platform ( 0.2 mm amplitude ) ; the frequency was 25Hz on both platforms . All participants and examiners were blinded to the amplitudes of the 2 platforms . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Primary outcome measures were isokinetic and isometric knee muscle strength ( dynamometer ) . Secondary outcome measures were balance ( Berg Balance Scale ) , muscle tone ( Modified Ashworth Scale ) , gait performance ( Timed Up & Go , comfortable gait speed , fast gait speed , and six-minute walk tests ) , and perceived participation ( Stroke Impact Scale ) . RESULTS There were no significant differences between the 2 groups after the WBV training . Significant but small improvements ( P<.05 ) in body function and gait performance were found within both groups , but the magnitude of the changes was in the range of normative variation . CONCLUSIONS Six weeks of WBV training on a vibration platform with conventional amplitude was not more efficient than a placebo vibrating platform . Therefore , the use of WBV training in individuals with chronic stroke and mild to moderate disability is not supported Objective The aim of the present study was to analyze the effects of whole-body vibration on lower limb muscle architecture , muscle strength , and balance in stroke patients during a period of 3 mos . Design The inclusion criteria were having had ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke at least 6 mos before the study and a National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score of greater than 1 and less than 20 . The patients were r and omly divided into two groups : an  experimental group ( n = 11 , six men and five women ; age , 62.4 ± 10.7 yrs ; height , 1.64 ± 0.07 m ; mass , 69.4 ± 12.9 kg ) and a sham group ( n = 9 , five men and four women ; age , 64.4 ± 7.6 yrs ; height , 1.62 ± 0.07 m ; mass , 75.0 ± 15.8 kg ) . The experimental group received a whole-body vibration treatment , with an increase in frequency , sets , and time per set during 17 sessions . The sham group performed the same exercises as that of the experimental group but was not exposed to vibration . Outcome variables included the muscle architecture ( the rectus femoris , the vastus lateralis , and the medial gastrocnemius ) , the maximal isometric voluntary contraction of the knee extensors , and the Berg Balance Scale . Results There were no significant differences between the groups on the primary outcomes of lower limb muscle architecture , muscle strength , and balance . Conclusions It seems that whole-body vibration exercise does not augment the increase in neuromuscular performance and lower limb muscle architecture induced by isometric exercise alone in stroke patients Objective The purpose of this study was to determine whether whole-body vibration training could improve st and ing balance and muscle strength in children with Down syndrome . Design This study was a r and omized controlled trial study ing 30 children ( 8–10 yrs old ) with Down syndrome . They were assigned r and omly using sealed envelopes , with 15 children allocated to the control group ( 9 boys , 6 girls ) and another 15 children allocated to the study group ( 8 boys , 7 girls ) . The control group received a design ed physical therapy program , whereas the study group received the same program given to the control group in addition to whole-body vibration training . Both groups received the treatment sessions three times per week for 6 successive months . Measurement of stability indices by using the Biodex Stability System as well as muscle strength of the knee flexors and extensors by using a h and held dynamometer was done before and after the 6 mos of the treatment program . Results Each group demonstrated significant improvements in stability indices and muscle strength after treatment ( P < 0.05 ) , with significantly greater improvements seen in the study group when compared with the control group ( P < 0.05 ) . Conclusions Whole-body vibration may be a useful intervention modality to improve balance and muscle strength in children with Down syndrome This study investigated the effect of performing a preconditioning exercise with or without whole-body vibration ( WBV ) on a subsequent cycling sprint performance . Fourteen trained subjects performed two separate test sessions in r and omized order . After a warm-up , the preconditioning exercise ( body-loaded half squats ) was applied : 30-seconds of half-squats with WBV ( 40 Hz , 2 mm ) or 30-seconds of half-squats without WBV with a 10-second all-out sprint performed after one minute . Surface electromyography ( EMG ) was measured from the vastus medialis , vastus lateralis and gastrocnemius medialis during the sprints . Blood lactate level ( BL ) , heart rate ( HR ) and rating of perceived exertion ( RPE ) were determined immediately after the 10-second sprint . Performing preconditioning exercise with WBV result ed in superior peak ( 1693 ± 356 W vs. 1637 ± 349 W , p ≤ 0.05 ) and mean power output ( 1121 ± 174 W vs. 1085 ± 175 W , p ≤ 0.05 ) compared to preconditioning exercise without WBV . Effect sizes showed a moderate and large practical effect of WBV vs. no WBV on peak and mean power output , respectively . No differences were observed between the conditions for BL , HR and RPE after the sprints and in EMG activity during the sprints . In conclusion , it is plausible to suggest that body-loaded half-squats with WBV acutely induces higher power output levels . The practical application of the current study is that body-loaded squats with WBV can be incorporated into preparations for specific sprint training to improve the quality of the sprint training and also in order to improve sprint performance in relevant competitions Functional ability is often impaired for people with rheumatoid arthritis ( RA ) , rendering these patients highly sedentary . Additionally , patients with RA often take medication known to negatively affect bone mass . Thus improving functional ability and bone health in this group of patients is important . The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of whole body vibration ( WBV ) therapy in patients with stable , established RA . Thirty one females with RA were r and omly assigned to a control group ( CON , n = 15 ) who continued with their normal activities or a WBV group ( n = 16 ) who underwent a three month WBV therapy intervention , consisting of 15 minutes of intermittent vibration , performed twice per week . Patients were assessed at baseline , three months , and three months post intervention for functional ability using the modified Health Assessment Question naire ; for RA disease activity using the Clinical Disease Activity Index , for quality of life using self-report fatigue and pain scores ; for physical activity profiles using accelerometry , and for BMD and body composition using DXA . Patients in both groups were matched for all variables at baseline . After the intervention period , functional ability was significantly improved in the WBV group ( 1.22(0.19 ) to 0.92(0.19 ) , p = 0.02 ) . Hip BMD was significantly reduced in the CON group ( 0.97(0.05 ) to 0.84(0.05 ) g.cm-2 , p = 0.01 ) , while no decreases were seen in the WBV group ( 1.01(0.05 ) to 0.94(0.05 ) g.cm-2 , p = 0.50 ) . Despite no change in RA disease activity in either group at either follow up , fatigue levels were improved in the WBV group ( 4.4(0.63 ) to 1.1(0.65 ) , yet remained unchanged in the CON group at both follow ups ( p = 0.01 ) . Ten minute bouts of light to moderate physical activity were significantly reduced in the CON group after the intervention ( 2.8(0.61 ) to 1.8(0.64 ) bouts per day , p = 0.01 ) , and were preserved in the WBV group ( 3.1(0.59 ) to 3.0(0.61 ) bouts per day , p = 0.70 ) . Intermittent WBV shows promise for sustained improvements in functional ability , for attenuating loss of bone mass at the hip , as well as for decreasing fatigue in patients with established RA . Trial Registration : Pan African Clinical Trials Registry Levendo&U01E7;lu F , U&U01E7;urlu H , Gürbilek M , Akkurt E , Karagözo&U01E7;lu E : Increased bone resorption in the proximal femur in patients with hemiplegia . Am J Phys Med Rehabil 2004;83:835–841 . Objectives : To investigate the relationship between the proximal femoral bone mineral density and bone resorption markers , determinants of calcium metabolism and vitamin D levels in elderly stroke patients . Design : A total of 80 patients and 20 controls were enrolled in the study .  Bone mineral density measurements were obtained at the proximal femur . In all subjects ,  25-hydroxyvitamin D , 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D , intact parathyroid hormone , osteocalcin , deoxypyridinoline , and ionized calcium concentrations  were measured . Barthel Index and Motricity Index Leg Score were recorded all patients . Results : The serum concentrations of deoxypyridinoline , intact parathyroid hormone , and the mean serum ionized calcium levels were significantly higher in patients with stroke than that of the control subjects . The mean serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations in patients were significantly lower than those of the control group ( P < 0.05 ) . The bone mineral density of proximal femurs of paretic limbs was decreased significantly compared with those of the control group ( P < 0.05 ) . There were significant correlations between the Z score of the hemiplegic side and the patients ’ Barthel Index , Motricity Index Leg Score , 25-hydroxyvitamin D , 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D , calcium , and deoxypyridinoline . Conclusions : This study provides clear evidence that decreased mobility , vitamin D status , and bone turnover variables in patients after stroke are important factors in the greater bone loss in the paretic leg Abstract Fort , A , Romero , D , Bagur , C , and Guerra , M. Effects of whole-body vibration training on explosive strength and postural control in young female athletes . J Strength Cond Res 26(4 ) : 926–936 , 2012–This study aim ed to evaluate the effectiveness of a whole-body vibration training program to improve neuromuscular performance in young elite female athletes . Twenty-three women basketball players ( 14–18 years old ) were r and omly assigned to a control group ( CG , n = 11 ) or to a whole-body vibration group ( WBVG , n = 12 ) . During the study period , both groups continued their usual training program , but the WBVG also underwent a 15-week vibration training program . We analyzed the countermovement jump test ( CMJ ) , the 1-leg hop test for the right leg and for the left leg , and the single-limb st and ing balance for both legs and with eyes open and closed at 3 time points : before training ( T1 ) , after an 8-week training period ( T2 ) , and after a further 7-week training period ( T3 ) . Compared with the CG , CMJ increased significantly in the WBVG from T1 to T2 ( 6.47 % , p < 0.001 ) , T1 to T3 ( 10.07 % , p = 0.005 ) , and T2 to T3 ( 3.38 % , p < 0.001 ) . One-leg hop test for the right and left legs also showed significantly higher values in WBVG from T1 to T2 ( 10.12 % , p < 0.001 and 9.63 % , p = 0.002 , respectively ) and T1 to T3 ( 14.17 % , p = 0.001 and 15.17 % , p = 0.004 , respectively ) . Lateral deviation of the center of pressure in the closed eyes test decreased significantly in WBVG for both right and left leg , from T1 to T2 ( −22.20 % , p = 0.043 and −34.77 % , p < 0.001 , respectively ) and from T1 to T3 ( −33.14 % , p = 0.027 and −33.58 % , p = 0.043 , respectively ) compared with the CG . In conclusion , our results show that a 15-week whole-body vibration training program improves explosive strength and postural stability in adolescent female basketball players PURPOSE A single-blinded r and omized controlled study was conducted to investigate the effects of different whole-body vibration ( WBV ) intensities on body functions/structures , activity , and participation in individuals with stroke . METHODS Eighty-four individuals with chronic stroke ( mean age = 61.2 yr , SD = 9.2 ) with mild to moderate motor impairment ( Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment lower limb motor score : median = 9 out of 14 , interquartile range = 7 - 11.8 ) were r and omly assigned to a low-intensity WBV , high-intensity WBV , or control group . The former two groups performed various leg exercises while receiving low-intensity and high-intensity WBV , respectively . Controls performed the same exercises without WBV . All individuals received 30 training sessions over an average period of 75.5 d ( SD = 5.2 ) . Outcome measurements included knee muscle strength ( isokinetic dynamometry ) , knee and ankle joint spasticity ( Modified Ashworth Scale ) , balance ( Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test ) , mobility ( Timed-Up- and -Go test ) , walking endurance ( 6-Minute Walk Test ) , balance self-efficacy ( Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale ) , participation in daily activities ( Frenchay Activity Index ) , perceived environmental barriers to societal participation ( Craig Hospital Inventory of Environmental Factors ) , and quality of life ( Short-Form 12 Health Survey ) . Assessment s were performed at baseline and postintervention . RESULTS Intention-to-treat analysis revealed a significant time effect for muscle strength , Timed-Up- and -Go distance , and oxygen consumption rate achieved during the 6-Minute Walk Test , the Mini Balance Evaluation Systems Test , the Activities-specific Balance Confidence scale , and the Short-Form 12 Health Survey physical composite score domain ( P < 0.05 ) . However , the time-group interaction was not significant for any of the outcome measures ( P > 0.05 ) . CONCLUSION The addition of the 30-session WBV paradigm to the leg exercise protocol was no more effective in enhancing body functions/structures , activity , and participation than leg exercises alone in chronic stroke patients with mild to moderate motor impairments Objective : To investigate the effects of a single session of whole body vibration training on  ankle plantarflexion spasticity and gait performance  in chronic stroke patients . Design : R and omized controlled trial . Setting : Rehabilitation unit in university hospital . Participants : Thirty subjects with chronic stroke were r and omized into either a control group ( n = 15 ) or a group receiving a single session of whole body vibration ( n = 15 ) . Intervention : The intervention group was actually treated with whole body vibration while the control group was treated with placebo treatment . Main measures : The spastic changes were measured clinical ly and neurophysiologically . Subjective evaluation of ankle spasticity was performed via a visual analogue scale . Gait performances were evaluated by the timed up and go test , 10-meter walk test and cadence . A forceplate was used for measuring foot pressure . Results : The changes between whole body vibration and control groups were significantly different in Modified Ashworth Scale ( 1.33 , 95 % confidence interval ( CI ) = 1.06~1.60 ) . The Hmax/Mmax ratio ( 0.14 , 95 % CI = 0.01~0.26 ) and visual analogue scale ( 1.87 , 95 % CI = 1.15~2.58 ) were significantly decreased . Whole body vibration could significantly improve gait velocity , timed up and go test ( 6.03 , 95 % CI = 3.17~8.89 ) and 10-meter walk test ( 1.99 , 95 % CI = 0.11~3.87 ) . The uneven body weight posture on bilateral feet was also improved after vibration . Conclusion : These results suggest that a single session of whole body vibration training can reduce ankle plantarflexion spasticity  in chronic stroke patients , thereby potentially increasing ambulatory capacity Abstract Cheng , C-F , Cheng , K-H , Lee , Y-M , Huang , H-W , Kuo , Y-H , and Lee , H-J. Improvement in running economy after 8 weeks of whole-body vibration training . J Strength Cond Res 26(12 ) : 3349–3357 , 2012—The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 8-week whole-body vibration ( WBV ) training on running economy ( RE ) and power performance . Twenty-four male collegiate athletes were recruited and r and omly assigned to experimental ( WBV ) and placebo ( PL ) groups . The WBV subjects performed semisquat vibration training ( 30 Hz , ±1−2 mm , 3 times per week ) , whereas PL subjects performed identical training without vibration . The isometric maximum voluntary contraction tests were used to evaluate maximal isometric force ( Fmax ) and rate of force development ( RFD ) of lower extremities , before and after the intervention , and RE was measured on a level treadmill at 3 velocities ( 2.68 , 3.13 , and 3.58 m·s−1 ) . The Fmax of the lower leg ( plantar flexion , from 80.8 ± 24.5 to 99.0 ± 33.9 N·m , p < 0.05 , & eegr;2 = 0.567 ; dorsiflexion , from 38.1 ± 6.5 to 43.0 ± 7.7 N·m , p < 0.05 ) , and the RFD of 0–200 milliseconds during plantar flexion ( from 186.0 ± 69.2 to 264.6 ± 87.2 N·m·s−1 , p < 0.05 , & eegr;2 = 0.184 ) were significantly increased in the WBV group after training . The averaged RE values for the 3 running velocities were significantly improved after WBV training ( pretraining vs. posttraining , 4.31 ± 0.33 vs. 4.65 ± 0.34 m·ml−1·kg−1 , p = 0.001 , & eegr;2 = 0.654 ) ; however , no significant differences were found in the PL group ( pretraining vs. posttraining , 4.18 ± 0.26 vs. 4.26 ± 0.44 m·ml−1·kg−1 , p = 0.476 ) . The WBV training significantly improved RE at selected speeds ( ∼5.0−8.5 % , p < 0.05 ) . These results indicated that short-term WBV training could be an effective stimulus to enhance RE and lower extremity power performance in competitive athletes BACKGROUND Whole-body vibration ( WBV ) has been used in older adults to improve bone health and neuromuscular function , and may have potential applications for stroke patients . AIM To investigate the effects of WBV on bone turnover , leg muscle strength , motor function , and spasticity among chronic stroke patients . DESIGN R and omized controlled trial ( RCT ) . SETTING Community . POPULATION Eighty-two chronic stroke patients . METHODS The experimental group underwent exercise training with WBV stimulation for a maximum of 15 minutes , 3 days per week for 8 weeks . The controls received the same exercises without WBV . Participants were evaluated for isokinetic knee muscle strength , serum levels of bone formation and resorption markers , spasticity and motor function of the paretic leg at baseline , immediately after the 8-week training period , and 1-month follow-up . RESULTS Intention-to-treat analysis revealed no significant changes in levels of bone turnover markers and motor function of the paretic leg over time in both groups . Muscle strength outcomes showed no significant group × time interaction , with similar significant improvements found in both groups . Spasticity of the paretic knee was significantly reduced in the experimental group ( P=0.005 ) , but not in controls ( P=0.465 ) . No serious adverse events were reported . CONCLUSION The WBV protocol used in this study did not induce additional effects on bone turnover , knee muscle strength and paretic leg motor function among chronic stroke patients . WBV may have potential to modulate spasticity , but this requires further investigation . CLINICAL REHABILITATION IMPACT More study on WBV is required before it can be recommended as an adjunct treatment in rehabilitation of chronic stroke patients Objective : To determine the effect of whole body vibration on isometric and eccentric torque and electromyography ( EMG ) variables of knee extensors on the affected side of stroke patients . Design : A r and omized controlled study . Setting : A rehabilitation centre . Subjects : Sixteen patients ( age 58.2 ± 9.4 years ) were enrolled in an inpatient rehabilitation programme 27.2 ± 10.4 days after a stroke . Interventions : Eight patients were r and omly assigned to the vibration group and received 20 Hz vibration ( 5 mm amplitude ) while st and ing on a vibration platform for 1 minute six times in one session . Patients in the control group also stood on the platform but did not receive vibration . Main measures : Maximum isometric and eccentric torque , rate of torque development , root-mean-squared EMG , median frequency of vastus lateralis , and co-activation of knee flexors . Results : Isometric and eccentric knee extension torque increased 36.6 % and 22.2 % , respectively , after vibration ( P < 0.05 ) and 8.4 % and 5.3 % in the control group . Vibration increased EMG amplitude 44.9 % and the median frequency in the vastus lateralis by 13.1 % ( all P < 0.05 ) without changes in the control group ( 10.6 % and 3.9 % ) . Vibration improved the ability to generate mechanical work during eccentric contraction ( 17.5 % ) . Vibration reduced biceps femoris co-activation during isometric ( 8.4 % , ns ) and eccentric ( 22.5 % , P < 0.05 ) contraction . Conclusion : These results suggest that one bout of whole body vibration can transiently increase voluntary force and muscle activation of the quadriceps muscle affected by a stroke OBJECTIVE To investigate the effects of whole body vibration ( WBV ) training on gait function in persons with mild multiple sclerosis ( MS ) . DESIGN A r and omized controlled trial . SUBJECTS 18 patients with MS were assigned r and omly to WBV ( intervention group ) or to placebo WBV . METHODS Both groups performed a 3-week training period under static conditions on a vibration platform . In the placebo group , the vibration platform was covered and therefore vibrations could not operate . Gait function ( gait velocity , stride length , double support phase , single-step variability left and right ) was assessed at baseline , after 3-weeks of WBV intervention or sham WBV , 4-weeks after baseline , and 5-weeks after baseline using a mobile plantar food pressure system and the " Timed Up and Go " test under four different gait conditions ( comfortable overground gait , comfortable gait on treadmill , -20 % comfortable gait velocity on treadmill and + 20 % comfortable gait velocity on treadmill ) . RESULTS None of the outcome measures of gait function showed statistically significant alterations following 3-weeks of intervention/placebo WBV . CONCLUSION The applied protocol of WBV does not show a meaningful improvement of gait function in mildly affected MS patients PURPOSE Individuals with spinal cord injury ( SCI ) often have involuntary , reflex-evoked muscle activity result ing in spasticity . Vibration may modulate reflex activity thereby decreasing spasticity . This study suggests feasibility of using whole-body vibration ( WBV ) to decrease quadriceps spasticity in individuals with SCI . METHODS Participants were individuals ( n=16 ) with spastic quadriceps hypertonia due to chronic SCI ( > 1 year ) . Quadriceps spasticity was measured by gravity-provoked stretch ( Pendulum Test ) before ( initial ) and after ( final ) a 3 day/week , 12-session WBV intervention . In addition , differences between immediate ( immediate post-WBV ) and delayed ( delayed post-WBV ) within-session effects were quantified . Finally , we assessed response differences between subjects who did and those who did not use antispastic agents .  RESULTS There was a significant reduction in quadriceps spasticity after participation in a WBV intervention that persisted for at least eight days . Within a WBV session , spasticity was reduced in the delayed post-WBV test compared to the immediate post-WBV test . The WBV intervention was associated with similar changes in quadriceps spasticity in subjects who did and those who did not use antispastic agents . CONCLUSIONS Vibration may be a useful adjunct to training in those with spasticity . Future studies should directly compare the antispastic effects of vibration to those of antispastic agents OBJECTIVES To investigate the effects of a 6-week whole body vibration ( WBV ) training program in patients with chronic stroke . DESIGN R and omized controlled pilot trial with 6 weeks ' follow-up . SETTING University hospital . PARTICIPANTS Adults with chronic stroke ( N=15 ) were r and omly assigned to an intervention ( n=7 ) or a control group ( n=8 ) . INTERVENTIONS Supervised , intensive WBV training . The vibration group performed a variety of static and dynamic squat exercises on a vibration platform with vibration amplitudes of 1.7 and 2.5 mm and frequencies of 35 and 40Hz . The vibration lasted 30 to 60 seconds , with 5 to 17 repetitions per exercise 3 times weekly for 6 weeks . Participants in the control group continued their usual activities and were not involved in any additional training program . MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary outcome variable was the isometric and isokinetic muscle strength of the quadriceps ( isokinetic dynamometer ) . Additionally , hamstrings muscle strength , static and dynamic postural control ( dynamic posturography ) , and muscle spasticity ( Ashworth Scale ) were assessed . RESULTS Compliance with the vibration intervention was excellent , and the participants completed all 18 training sessions . Vibration frequencies of both 35 and 40Hz were well tolerated by the patients , and no adverse effects result ing from the vibration were noted . Overall , the effect of intensive WBV intervention result ed in significant between-group differences in favor of the vibration group only in isometric knee extension strength ( knee angle , 60 ° ) ( P=.022 ) after 6 weeks of intervention and in isokinetic knee extension strength ( velocity , 240 ° /s ) after a 6-week follow-up period ( P=.005 ) , both for the paretic leg . Postural control improved after 6 weeks of vibration in the intervention group when the patients had normal vision and a sway-referenced support surface ( P<.05 ) . Muscle spasticity was not affected by vibration ( P>.05 ) . CONCLUSIONS These preliminary results suggest that intensive WBV might potentially be a safe and feasible way to increase some aspect of lower limb muscle strength and postural control in adults with chronic stroke . Further studies should focus on evaluating how the training protocol should be administered to achieve the best possible outcome , as well as comparing this training protocol to other interventions PURPOSE Whole-body vibration therapy has gained increasing popularity in enhancing neuromotor function in various patient population s. It remains uncertain , however , whether whole-body vibration is beneficial when used in stroke patients . The aim of this r and omized controlled trial was to examine the efficacy of whole-body vibration in optimizing neuromotor performance and reducing falls in chronic stroke patients . METHODS Eighty-two chronic stroke patients were r and omly assigned to either the experimental group or control group . The experimental group received 9 - 15 min of whole-body vibration ( vertical vibration ; frequency = 20 - 30 Hz . amplitude = 0.44 - 0.60 mm , peak acceleration = 9.5 - 15.8 m·s or 0.97 - 1.61 U of Earth gravitational acceleration ( g ) while performing a variety of dynamic leg exercises on the vibration platform . The control group performed the same exercises without vibration . The subjects underwent their respective training three times a week for 8 wk . Balance ( Berg balance scale ) , mobility ( 10-m walk test and 6-min walk test ) , knee muscle strength ( isokinetic dynamometry ) , and fall-related self-efficacy ( activities-specific balance confidence scale ) were assessed at baseline , immediately after the 8-wk training and at a 1-month follow-up . The incidence of falls was recorded until 6 months after the termination of training . RESULTS Intention-to-treat analysis revealed similar significant improvement in all balance , mobility , muscle strength , and fall-related self-efficacy measures in both groups after the 8-wk treatment period ( P < 0.001 ) , and these were maintained at the 1-month follow-up . The incidence of falls did not differ significantly between the two groups ( P > 0.05 ) . CONCLUSIONS The addition of the presently used whole-body vibration paradigm to a leg exercise protocol was no more effective in improving neuromotor performance and reducing the incidence of falls than leg exercises alone in chronic stroke patients who have mild to moderate motor impairments
Background and Purpose Recently new technologies and new techniques , such as Whole Body Vibration ( WBV ) , have been introduced by the health and fitness industry to pursue therapeutic or physical performance goals .
The aim of this systematic review is to investigate the effectiveness of single or multiple WBV sessions alone or in association with traditional rehabilitation , compared to traditional rehabilitation therapy or with sham therapy in poststroke patients .