Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on the endocrine system of healthy men

The effect of whole-body vibration on glucose and lipid profiles in type-2 diabetes: a systematic review and pairwise and network meta-analyses of randomized trials

Whole-body vibration (WBV), a training method based on the stimulation of muscle contraction by mechanical vibration generated in a vibrating platform, is claimed to be effective in diabetes management. This meta-analysis evaluated WBV effects against other exercises, placebo, or no intervention in type-2 diabetes. Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched through June 2023. Randomized controlled trials reported the effect of WBV on glucose (hemoglobin A1C and fasting blood glucose), and lipid profiles (total cholesterol, triglycerides, high, and low-density lipoprotein) were included. Two researchers independently extracted the characteristics of the studies, participants, WBV intervention and comparisons, and the outcomes from the included articles. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale assessed trial quality. In this review, all articles had no high risk of bias according to the PEDro scale, with studies achieving optimal, excellent, and good scores. Network meta-analysis revealed that WBV was effective for reducing hemoglobin A1C when compared with conventional (mean difference: - 1.58%, 95%CrI: - 2.51, - 0.47) and resistance exercise (mean difference: - 1.32%, 95%CrI: - 1.96, - 0.33). WBV had also a desirable but insignificant effect on hemoglobin A1C compared to stretching and balance exercises, placebo, and no intervention. The current pairwise meta-analysis did not show that WBV favors fasting blood glucose and lipids. WBV may have potential advantages for glycemic control in type-2 diabetes. However, uncertainties in the findings remain due to the limited number of studies and their heterogeneity.

Novel Approach for Glycemic Management Incorporating Vibration Stimulation of Skeletal Muscle in Obesity

Because obesity is associated with impaired glucose tolerance and type 2 diabetes (T2D), it is important to manage the blood glucose level at an early stage. Nevertheless, people with obesity have significantly lower resistance to muscle fatigue after exercise and exercise adherence. Therefore, we developed a novel "Relaxing-Vibration Training (_RVT)" consisting of 25 postures using vibration stimulation of skeletal muscle and determined the feasibility of _RVT for glycemic management. Thirty-one participants with obesity were enrolled in a controlled trial (CT) and experimental trial (ET) based on a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). During the CT, participants were required to rest in a quiet room. During the ET, the _RVT program (50 Hz, 4 mm), consisting of 25 postures of relaxation and stretching on the vibratory platform, was performed for 40 min. Subsequently, the participants rested as in the CT. Subjective fatigue and muscle stiffness measurements and blood collection were conducted before and after _RVT. In both the CT and ET, interstitial fluid (ISF) glucose concentrations were measured every 15 min for 2 h. The incremental area under the curve value of real-time ISF glucose during an OGTT was significantly lower in the ET than in the CT (ET: 7476.5 ± 2974.9, CT: 8078.5 ± 3077.7, effect size r = 0.4). Additionally, the levels of metabolic glucose regulators associated with myokines, muscle stiffness, and subjective fatigue significantly improved after _RVT. This novel _RVT suggests that it is effective in glycemic management with great potential to improve impaired glucose tolerance and T2D with obesity in the future.

The Effect of Vibration on the Acceleration of Wound Healing of Diabetic Neuropathic Foot Ulcer: A Prospective Experimental Study on Human Patients

Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication that occurs in approximately 15 percent of patients with diabetes mellitus. Over 60% of diabetic foot ulcers are caused by underlying neuropathy. Former studies on diabetic animals with foot wounds found that vibration platforms significantly accelerate wound healing by catalyzing epithelization, promoting angiogenesis, and enhancing muscle bulk. This result suggests that there is evidence that vibrations may accelerate diabetic neuropathic ulcer healing in human patients. However, to the best of our knowledge, the effect of vibration on the enhancements of diabetic foot ulcer healing in human patients is rarely investigated. Hence, in this work, we conducted an experimental study with human subjects to investigate whether vibration therapy, as a complement to the standard wound treatment, can accelerate the wound healing rate of diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers. In this prospective experimental study, 80 participants diagnosed with Wagner grades I−III diabetic neuropathic foot ulcers were randomly distributed to experimental (n = 40) and control groups (n = 40). Patients in the intervention group received standard wound treatment and vibration wound therapy (VWT), whereas patients in the control group retrieved only standard wound treatment. The results (p = 0.024, α = 0.05) show notable differences in the median healing rate between the intervention group (25 days, 95% CI: 20.3−29.7) and control group (33 days, 95% CI: 25.6−40.4), with the effect-size r, Cohen’s d, Glass’s Δ, and Hedges’ g, respectively, being 0.810, 2.764, 2.311, and 2.772. Moreover, the nitric oxide (NO) level, wound closure area, and wound healing score after intervention significantly differed between the two groups (p < 0.05), putting the intervention group on a higher level than the control group. Furthermore, positive associations were found between the NO level and wound healing closure rates. These findings suggested that VWT enhances diabetic neuropathic foot ulcer healing in terms of healing rate, wound closure area, healing score, and elevated NO level. Considering that no clinically adverse effects were found in the patients induced with vibration intervention, VWT can be regarded as a complementary therapy to the existing ones to accelerate the healing of DFUs.

From Cultured Vascular Cells to Vessels: The Cellular and Molecular Basis of Vascular Dysfunction in Space

Life evolved on this planet under the pull of gravity, shielded from radiation by the magnetosphere and shaped by circadian rhythms due to Earth’s rotation on its axis. Once living beings leave such a protective environment, adaptive responses are activated to grant survival. In view of long manned mission out of Earth’s orbit, it is relevant to understand how humans adapt to space and if the responses activated might reveal detrimental in the long run. Here we review present knowledge about the effects on the vessels of various extraterrestrial factors on humans as well as in vivo and in vitro experimental models. It emerges that the vasculature activates complex adaptive responses finalized to supply oxygen and nutrients to all the tissues and to remove metabolic waste and carbon dioxide. Most studies point to oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction as mediators of vascular alterations in space. Unraveling the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in these adaptive processes might offer hints to design proper and personalized countermeasures to predict a safe future in space.

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.

Acute effects of whole body vibration exercise on post-load glucose metabolism in healthy men: a pilot randomized crossover trial

PURPOSE

Exercise on a whole body vibration (WBV) platform, namely WBV exercise (WBVE), has long-term beneficial effects on glucose metabolism, similarly to conventional moderate-intensity exercise. Conventional moderate-intensity exercise reduces post-load plasma glucose levels at the acute phase. This study aimed to reveal acute effects of WBVE on post-load glucose metabolism.

METHODS

This randomized crossover trial enrolled 18 healthy men. They completed the following three interventions in a random order: (1) a 2-hour 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) without WBVE (OGTT-alone), (2) 20-minute WBVE before an OGTT (WBVE → OGTT), and (3) 20-minute WBVE during an OGTT (OGTT → WBVE). Post-load glucose metabolism in the WBVE → OGTT and OGTT → WBVE interventions were compared with that in the OGTT-alone intervention.

RESULTS

Plasma glucose levels in the WBVE → OGTT and OGTT → WBVE interventions were not significantly different from those in the OGTT-alone intervention at any time point except 15 min, wherein the WBVE → OGTT intervention had higher glucose levels (111 [interquartile range, 102-122] mg/dL vs 122 [111-134] mg/dL, P = 0.026). Higher plasma glucagon levels were observed at 0 min in the WBVE → OGTT intervention and at 60 min in the OGTT → WBVE intervention (P = 0.010 and 0.015). Cortisol, Growth hormone, and adrenaline levels were significantly increased after WBVE, whereas noradrenaline levels were not. Serum insulin levels in the WBVE → OGTT intervention were significantly higher than those in the OGTT-alone intervention at 0 min (P = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

WBVE did not decrease post-load plasma glucose levels at the acute phase. Acute effects of WBVE on post-load glucose metabolism would not be identical to those of conventional exercise. The unique trial number and the name of the registry: UMIN000036520, www.umin.ac.jp , date of registration, June 12, 2019.

Spectral analysis of blood flow oscillations to assess the plantar skin blood flow regulation in response to preconditioning local vibrations

BACKGROUND

Local vibration has shown promise in improving skin blood flow and wound healing. However, the underlying mechanism of local vibration as a preconditioning intervention to alter plantar skin blood flow after walking is unclear.

OBJECTIVE

The objective was to use wavelet analysis of skin blood flow oscillations to investigate the effect of preconditioning local vibration on plantar tissues after walking.

METHODS

A double-blind, repeated measures design was tested in 10 healthy participants. The protocol included 10-min baseline, 10-min local vibrations (100 Hz or sham), 10-min walking, and 10-min recovery periods. Skin blood flow was measured over the first metatarsal head of the right foot during the baseline and recovery periods. Wavelet amplitudes after walking were expressed as the ratio of the wavelet amplitude before walking.

RESULTS

The results showed the significant difference in the metabolic (vibration 10.06 ± 1.97, sham 5.78 ± 1.53, p < 0.01) and neurogenic (vibration 7.45 ± 1.54, sham 4.78 ± 1.22, p < 0.01) controls. There were no significant differences in the myogenic, respiratory and cardiac controls between the preconditioning local vibration and sham conditions.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results showed that preconditioning local vibration altered the normalization rates of plantar skin blood flow after walking by stimulating the metabolic and neurogenic controls.

Serum Cortisol and Clinical Response to a Single Session of Whole-Body Vibration in Healthy Adult Dogs

This study evaluated the serum cortisol response to a single session of whole-body vibration (WBV) in healthy adult dogs. Ten healthy adult medium dogs, females and males, aged between 24 and 48 months and with body weight between 10.1 and 17.9 kg were used. A single WBV session at a frequency of 30 Hz for 5 min (3.10 mm peak displacement, 11.16 m/s² peak acceleration, and 0.29 m/s velocity), then 50 Hz for 5 min (3.98 mm peak displacement, 39.75 m/s² peak acceleration, and 0.62 m/s velocity), and finishing with 30 Hz for 5 min (3.10 mm peak displacement, 11.16 m/s² peak acceleration, and 0.29 m/s velocity) was performed. Serum cortisol, heart and respiratory rate, and systolic blood pressure were evaluated at different time points: 1 min before WBV (1PRE) and 1 min (1POST), 60 min (60POST), and 360 min (360POST) after the WBV session. An increase (P = 0.0417) of the serum cortisol values was observed between 1PRE and 1POST and a decrease (P = 0.0417) between 1POST and 60POST and between 60POST and 360POST. However, the values remained within the reference range. The heart and respiratory rate and the systolic blood pressure remained unchanged. Our findings suggest that a single bout of WBV (5 min of 30 and 50 Hz) using a vibrating platform that delivered a vortex wave circulation does not modify the serum cortisol levels and clinical parameters of healthy adult dogs.

Effects of a single session of whole-body vibration exercise on haematological and biochemical parameters, and serum cortisol levels in cats

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a single-session of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on haematological and serum biochemical parameters and serum cortisol levels in healthy adult cats. Ten healthy neutered crossbred cats, five males and five females, aged 2 to 4 years and weighing 3.25-5.15 kg, were enrolled. All cats were tested in the same period starting at 12:00 a.m. and under same environmental conditions. A 1 h period of acclimatisation and rest was completed prior to the WBV session. During the WBV session, the cat was placed in a standing position on the centre of the vibrating platform. Each cat was exposed to a single WBV session. The protocol was 30 Hz for 5 min, followed by 50 Hz for 5 min and finishing with 30 Hz for 5 min. The peak displacements were 3.10 mm and 3.98 mm and the peak accelerations 55.0 m/s and 195.96 m/s. Complete blood cell count, serum biochemistry (alanine aminotransferase, creatinine, creatine phosphokinase) and serum cortisol were determined at three time-points: before (T0), immediately after (T1), and at 4 h after the end of the WBV session (T2). Immediately after increasing the frequency from 30 to 50 Hz, two cats (20%) tried to sit and showed signs of agitation that ceased after 15 s. No cat tried to jump out. The variables presented no statistically significant differences among the time-points. In conclusion, a 15 min session of WBV exercise at frequencies of 30, 50 and 30 Hz does not cause significant changes in haematological or serum biochemical parameters, nor in serum cortisol levels in healthy adult cats.

Effects of flexi bar training model to health-related physical fitness in overweight adults

[Purpose] The purpose of this study was to assess the effects of flexi bar training model and moderate running exercise on health-related physical fitness in overweight adults. [Participants and Methods] Forty participants were randomly assigned to an experimental (20 participant performing flexi bar training model (FBT)) and control (20 participant performing moderate running exercise (MRE) group. The participant in both groups then underwent program training 50 min/day, 3 times a week, for 12 weeks. The main outcome measures were health related physical fitness (HRPF). [Results] The result showed significant differences between FBT and MRE group. After 12 weeks FBT showed improve HRPF variable. [Conclusion] flexi bar training model can improvement health related physical fitness in overweight adults.

Vascular and Microvascular Dysfunction Induced by Microgravity and Its Analogs in Humans: Mechanisms and Countermeasures

Weightlessness and physical inactivity have deleterious cardiovascular effects. The space environment and its ground-based models offer conditions to study the cardiovascular effects of physical inactivity in the absence of other vascular risk factors, particularly at the macro- and microcirculatory levels. However, the mechanisms involved in vascular dysfunction and remodeling are not sufficiently studied in the context of weightlessness and its analogs including models of physical inactivity. Here, we summarize vascular and microvascular changes induced by space flight and observed in models of microgravity and physical inactivity and review the effects of prophylactic strategies (i.e., countermeasures) on vascular and microvascular function. We discuss physical (e.g., exercise, vibration, lower body negative pressure, and artificial gravity) and nutritional/pharmacological (e.g., caloric restriction, resveratrol, and other vegetal extracts) countermeasures. Currently, exercise countermeasure appears to be the most effective to protect vascular function. Although pharmacological countermeasures are not currently considered to fight vascular changes due to microgravity, nutritional countermeasures are very promising. Dietary supplements/natural health products, especially plant extracts, should be extensively studied. The best prophylactic strategy is likely a combination of countermeasures that are effective not only at the cardiovascular level but also for the organism as a whole, but this strategy remains to be determined.

Effects of Pre-exercise Acute Vibration Training on Symptoms of Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Tan, J, Shi, X, Witchalls, J, Waddington, G, Lun Fu, AC, Wu, S, Tirosh, O, Wu, X, and Han, J. Effects of pre-exercise acute vibration training on symptoms of exercise-induced muscle damage: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Strength Cond Res XX(X): 000-000, 2020-Exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD) normally occurs after unaccustomed high-intensity eccentric exercises. Symptoms of EIMD include delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS), tenderness, stiffness, swelling, reduced strength, and increased creatine kinase (CK) levels in the blood. Vibration training (VT) may be useful as a pre-exercise intervention in attenuating EIMD on the basis of tonic vibration reflex (TVR) through a more efficient distribution of contractile stress over muscle fibers. The objective of this meta-analysis is to examine the effects of acute VT on symptoms of EIMD when performed as the pre-exercise intervention. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published in the 8 databases of Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, EBSCO, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Airiti Library and WanFang Data from 1966 (the earliest available time) to January 2019 were searched. A total of 2,324 records were identified and 448 articles were screened with the title and abstract. Two investigators identified eligible studies, extracted data, and assessed the risk of bias independently. Review Manager 5.3 designed by Cochrane was used for the current meta-analysis. Six RCTs involving 180 subjects were included in the analysis. A low-to-moderate methodological quality of the included studies was revealed using the physiotherapy evidence database scale. The results showed that acute VT was superior to the control group for the reduction of DOMS on pain visual analogue scale at 24, 48 hours and pressure pain threshold at 24 hours. In addition, superior effects of acute VT were also found on the indirect markers of muscle damage including CK at 24, 72 hours, and lactate dehydrogenase at 24 hours. The current meta-analysis has collated the evidence to demonstrate that receiving acute VT before unaccustomed high-intensity eccentric exercises may be effective in attenuating markers of muscle damage and the development of DOMS when compared with a control group. The possible mechanisms of this effect could be attributed to an improved synchronization of muscle fiber caused by TVR, which could result in even distribution of exterior loads and eventually attenuate disruptions of muscle fibers. In addition, increased blood flow may also be helpful to prevent accumulation of metabolic substances and attenuate subsequent symptoms of EIMD. Vibration training may be used as a pre-exercise intervention to alleviate symptoms of EIMD caused by unaccustomed high-intensity eccentric exercise. Because of the limited quantity and quality of included studies, more high-quality studies are required to ascertain the effect of VT on symptoms of EIMD.

Individualized Whole-Body Vibration: Neuromuscular, Biochemical, Muscle Damage and Inflammatory Acute Responses

Objective. We aimed to investigate the acute residual hormonal, biochemical, and neuromuscular responses to a single session of individualized whole-body vibration (WBV) while maintaining a half-squat position. Methods. Twenty male sport science students voluntarily participated in the present study and were randomly assigned to an individualized WBV group (with the acceleration load determined for each participant) or an isometric group (ISOM). A double-blind, controlled parallel study design with repeated measures was employed. Results. Testosterone and growth hormone increased significantly over time in the WBV group (P < .05 and P < .01, respectively; effect size [ES] ranged from 1.00 to 1.23), whereas cortisol increased over time in both groups (P < .01; ES ranged from 1.04 and 1.36). Interleukin-6 and creatine kinase increased significantly over time only in the WBV group (P < .05; ES = 1.07). The maximal voluntary contraction decreased significantly over time in the ISOM group (P = .019; ES = 0.42), whereas in the WBV group, the decrease did not reach a significant level (P = .05). The ratio of electromyographic activity and power decreased significantly over time in the WBV group (P < .01; ES ranged from 0.57 to 0.72). Conclusion. Individualized WBV increased serum hormonal concentrations, muscle damage, and inflammation to levels similar to those induced by resistance training and hypertrophy exercises.

Effects of Preconditioning Local Vibrations on Subsequent Plantar Skin Blood Flow Response to Walking

Weight-bearing exercise such as walking may increase risk of foot ulcers in people with diabetes mellitus (DM) because of plantar ischemia due to repetitive, high plantar pressure. Applications of local vibrations on plantar tissues as a preconditioning intervention before walking may reduce plantar tissue ischemia during walking. The objective of this study was to explore whether preconditioning local vibrations reduce reactive hyperemia after walking. A double-blind, repeated-measures, and crossover design was tested in 10 healthy participants without DM. The protocol included 10-minute baseline, 10-minute local vibrations (100 Hz or sham), 10-minute walking, and 10-minute recovery periods. The order of local vibrations was randomly assigned. Skin blood flow (SBF) was measured over the first metatarsal head during baseline and recovery periods. SBF responses were characterized as peak SBF, total SBF, and recovery time of reactive hyperemia. SBF was expressed as a ratio of recovery to baseline SBF to quantify the changes. Peak SBF in the vibration protocol (6.98 ± 0.87) was significantly lower than the sham control (9.26 ± 1.34, P < .01). Total SBF in the vibration protocol ([33.32 ± 7.98] × 103) was significantly lower than the sham control ([48.09 ± 8.9] × 103, P < .05). The recovery time in the vibration protocol (166.08 ± 32.71 seconds) was not significantly different from the sham control (223.53 ± 38.85 seconds, P = .1). Local vibrations at 100 Hz could reduce walking-induced hyperemic response on the first metatarsal head. Our finding indicates that preconditioning local vibrations could be a potential preventive intervention for people at risk for foot ulcers.

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.

Effects of Whole-Body Vibration in Older Adult Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to determine the effects of whole-body vibration training on metabolic abnormalities, mobility, balance and aerobic capacity in older adult patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

METHODS

We searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, PEDro, LILACS and SciELO (from the earliest date available to March 2018) for controlled trials that evaluated the effects of whole-body vibration on the health-related outcomes of patients with type 2 diabetes. Two reviewers independently selected the studies and performed statistical analyses of the studies. Weighted mean differences, standard mean differences and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated.

RESULTS

In total, 7 studies, involving 279 patients who had type 2 diabetes, that compared whole-body vibration with other exercises and/or controls were included. Individual studies suggested that whole-body vibration was associated with improvements in pain levels, blood flow in the legs, glycated hemoglobin levels and fasting blood glucose levels. Whole-body vibration improved mobility weighted mean differences (-.24 seg; 95% CI -2.0, -0.5; n=96); balance standard mean differences (2.34; 95% CI 1.16, 3.5; n=57); and aerobic capacity standard mean differences (0.7; 95% CI 0.2, 1.3; n=59).

CONCLUSIONS

Whole-body vibration could be a useful strategy in the management of the symptoms and disabilities associated with type 2 diabetes; however, it is necessary to perform further studies to reinforce the reported findings.

Effect of whole-body vibration on neuromuscular performance: A literature review

BACKGROUND

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a neuromuscular training method that has recently received popularity in health and fitness centers, as an additional or substitute method to conventional training and therapy, in order to improve muscle strength and power.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this review is to critically observe the effect of WBV training on neuromuscular performance in view of its ability to enhance the muscles strength, power, and flexibility; and also to investigate the influence of the different vibration characteristics (viz., method of application of vibration, frequency, and amplitude) and exercise protocols on the effect of this training.

METHOD

For this review 24 studies or articles were examined, and based on exclusion and inclusion criteria, 5 studies were finally selected; and an attempt was made to uncover the factors influencing the improvement in neuromuscular performance as a result of WBV intervention. During the review, it was considered to include and discuss as many characteristics as possible, such as, knee extension, knee flexion, counter movement jump (CMJ), squat exercise, and jumping height (JH).

RESULT

Whole-body vibration, along with additional exercise training, has a potential to induce substantial improvement in neuromuscular performance.

CONCLUSION

Whole-body vibration can bring about improvement in muscles strength, power, and flexibility. The main factors associated with the improvement in muscles performance are range of amplitude and frequency, type of vibration and its method of application, training intensity, exercise protocol, and the characteristics of the participants.

High-Intensity Interval Training Combined With Vibration and Dietary Restriction Improves Body Composition and Blood Lipids in Obese Adults: A Randomized Trial

This study aimed to compare the effect of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) with additional whole-body vibration (WBV) on body composition and lipid profile in obese/overweight adults on a hypocaloric diet. Forty adults were randomly assigned to (a) HIIT and vibration and hypocaloric diet (HIITWBV, n = 13), (b) HIIT and diet (HIIT, n = 14), and (c) diet only (control [CON], n = 13). High-intensity interval training WBV participants trained 3 times per week for 8 weeks (6 sets × 1 minute of HIIT, cycling at 90% heart rate peak followed by 1 minute of interset vibration, at a frequency of 18 Hz increasing until 25 Hz with a peak-to-peak displacement of 4 mm. Training volume increased 1 set every 2 weeks until 10 sets). The HIIT group performed HIIT training followed by 2 minutes of passive recovery, while the CON continued with their daily activities combined with calorie restriction. Body composition (body fat and fat-free mass) and biochemical indices (glucose, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides) were determined. Following 8 weeks, body fat was significantly reduced by 7.5% and both triglycerides and total cholesterol decreased in the HIITWBV group only (−16.5% and −11.7% respectively). This study suggests that HIIT in combination with WBV and a hypocaloric diet can improve overall lipid profile in overweight/obese individuals.

Whole-body vibration training in obese subjects: A systematic review

OBJECTIVE

(i) to determine the outcomes of whole-body vibration training (WBVT) on obese individuals, and the intervention settings producing such effects; (ii) identify potential improper or harmful use of WBVT.

DESIGN

Systematic review.

DATA SOURCES

Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PEDro and Scielo until July 2018.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Full papers evaluating the effect of WBVT on body composition, cardiovascular status and functional performance in obese adults. Papers with PEDro score<4 were excluded.

STUDY APPRAISAL AND SYNTHESIS

Risk of bias and quality of WBVT reporting were assessed with PEDro scale (randomized controlled trials) or TREND checklist (non-randomized studies) and a 14-items checklist, respectively. Weighted acceleration, daily exposure and Hedges' adjusted g were computed.

RESULTS

We included 18 papers published 2010-2017. Typical interventions consisted in three sessions/week of exercises (squats, calf-raises) performed on platforms vibrating at 25-40 Hz (amplitude: 1-2 mm); according to ISO 2631-1:1997, daily exposure was "unsafe" in 7/18 studies. Interventions lasting ≥6 weeks improved cardiac autonomic function and reduced central/peripheral arterial stiffness in obese women; 10 weeks of WBVT produced significant weight/fat mass reduction, leg strength improvements as resistance training, and enhanced glucose regulation when added to hypocaloric diet. No paper evidenced losses of lean mass. Isolated cases of adverse effects were reported.

SUMMARY

To date, WBVT is a promising adjuvant intervention therapy for obese women; long-term studies involving larger cohorts and male participants are required to demonstrate the associated safety and health benefits. The therapeutic use of WBVT in the management of obese patients is still not standardised and should be supported by an extensive knowledge on the causality between vibration parameters and outcomes.

Effects of whole-body vibration on heart rate variability: acute responses and training adaptations

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a noninvasive and practical measure of cardiac autonomic nervous system function, mainly the sympathetic and parasympathetic modulations of heart rate. A low HRV has been shown to be indicative of compromised cardiovascular health. Interventions that enhance HRV are therefore beneficial to cardiovascular health. Whole-body vibration (WBV) training has been proposed as an alternative time-efficient exercise intervention for the improvement of cardiovascular health. In this review, we discuss the effect of WBV both acute and after training on HRV. WBV training appears to be a useful therapeutic intervention to improve cardiac autonomic function in different populations, mainly through decreases in sympathovagal balance. Although the mechanisms by which WBV training improves symphathovagal balance are not yet well understood; enhancement of baroreflex sensitivity, nitric oxide bioavailability and angiotensin II levels seem to play an important role.

Effects of vibration-induced fatigue on the H-reflex

Vibration exercise (VE) has been suggested as an effective training for improving muscle strength and coordination. However, the underlying physiological adaptation processes are not yet fully understood, limiting the development of safe and effective exercise protocols. To better understand the neuromuscular responses elicited by VE, we aimed at investigating the acute effects of superimposed vibration on the Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex), measured after fatiguing exercise. Twenty-five volunteers performed four isometric contractions of the right Flexor Carpi Radialis (FCR) with baseline load at 80% of their maximal voluntary contraction (MVC), both with no vibration and with superimposed vibration at 15, 30, and 45 Hz. Fatigue was estimated by MVC test and estimation of electromyographic spectral compression. H-reflex suppression was estimated as the relative decrease after exercise. Our results show that fatiguing exercise determined a decrease in H-reflex amplitude compared to rest condition while vibration determined a lower H-reflex suppression as compared to no vibration. The superimposition of 30-Hz vibration determined the largest acute reduction in force generating capacity (36 N, p < 0.05) and the lowest H-reflex suppression (20%, p < 0.05). These results suggest VE to be particularly suitable in rehabilitation programs for rapid restoration of muscle form and function after immobilization periods.

Can whole body vibration exercises affect growth hormone concentration? A systematic review

Whole body vibration (WBV) has been recognized as an effective alternative exercise modality to resistance exercise for its ability in enhancing force and power, generating capacity in skeletal muscle, increasing bone mass and improving cardiovascular function. Since the effect of WBV exercises on growth hormone (GH) levels has been never compared and discussed, the aim of this study was to review systematically the literature to verify the WBV effects on GH concentration. By using PubMed, Scopus and PEDRo databases with the keywords 'growth hormone' or GH and 'whole body vibration' or WBV, we found and analysed 12 papers (182 subjects recruited), verifying their level of evidence (National Health and Medical Research Council hierarchy of evidence) and the methodological quality (PEDRo scale). Although WBV induced GH responses in nine out of 12 publications, caution should be however taken when considering the results due to the markedly different methodologies among these publications.

Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Hematology and Serum Biochemistry in Healthy Dogs

The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on hematology and serum biochemistry in healthy dogs. Ten intact beagle dogs, 3 females, and 7 males, with a mean age of 3 years, and mean body mass of 14.3kg, body condition score between 4.0/9 and 4.5/9 were evaluated. The WBV sessions were done with the dog standing up on all 4 feet on a vibrating platform. Daily session of 30Hz for 5 minutes, followed by 50Hz for 5 minutes and finishing with 30Hz for 5 minutes was accomplished for 5 days. The velocity and amplitude of the vibrating platform were 12-40m/s² and 1.7-2.5mm, respectively. Blood samples were collected, before and immediately after the WBV platform exercise session, and 1 and 6 hours after the end of each session for 5 days. In addition, blood samples were collected 24 hours and 48 hours after the last WBV platform exercise session. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, creatine kinase, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, and serum total protein) were the data analyzed. The erythrocytes, hemoglobin, and packet cell volume values decreased, whereas the leukocytes, neutrophils, and eosinophils values increased after WBV platform exercise sessions; however, all values were within the reference range. Other hematological and serum biochemical parameters did not show important variations. In conclusion, the WBV exercise sessions attended for 5 consecutive days did not adversely affect the hematology and serum biochemistry of adult healthy dogs.

EFFECT OF A SHORT PERIOD WHOLE BODY VIBRATION WITH 10 HZ ON BLOOD BIOMARKERS IN WISTAR RATS

BACKGROUND

Exposure to whole body vibration exercises (WBVE), besides some biological effects, causes alterations in the concentration of some blood biomarkers. The aim of this study is to evaluate the action of vibration (10 Hz) of WBVE on the concentration of blood biomarkers in Wistar rats.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Wistar rats were divided in 2 groups. The experimental group (EG) was subjected to vibrations of 10Hz (one min per day, one week, total time of seven min), while the control group (CG) has not experienced vibration. Samples of whole blood were drawn for biochemical analysis of the concentration of total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, VLDL, glucose, CPK, albumin, alkaline phosphates, TGP, TGO, γGT, lipase, amylase, urea and creatinine.

RESULTS

White blood cell count and a platelet-hemogram were also performed. Significant (p<0.05) increase in TGP, TGO and white blood cells and decrease in LDL concentration was found after exposure of 10Hz mechanical vibration.

CONCLUSION

Although these findings were obtained with rats, they might contribute to try to understand better these mechanisms that occur following exposure to a frequency of 10Hz.

EFFECT OF MECHANICAL VIBRATION GENERATED IN OSCILLATING/VIBRATORY PLATFORM ON THE CONCENTRATION OF PLASMA BIOMARKERS AND ON THE WEIGHT IN RATS

Background:

Whole body vibration (WBV) exercise has been used in health sciences. Authors have reported that changes on the concentration of plasma biomarkers could be associated with the WBV effects. The aim of this investigation is to assess the consequences of exposition of 25 Hz mechanical vibration generated in oscillating/vibratory platform (OVP) on the concentration of some plasma biomarkers and on the weight of rats.

Materials and Methods:

Wistar rats were divided into two groups. The animals of the Experimental Group (EG) were submitted to vibration (25 Hz) generated in an OVP with four bouts of 30 seconds with rest time of 60 seconds between the bouts. This procedure was performed daily for 12 days. The animals of the control group (CG) were not exposed to vibration.

Results:

Our findings show that the WBV exercise at 25 Hz was not capable to alter significantly (p<0.05) the weight of the rats. A significant alteration in the concentrations of amylase was found.

Conclusion:

Our results indicate a modulation of the WBV exercise with vibration of 25 Hz of frequency (i) in the pathways related to the weight and (ii) in the concentration of some biomarkers, such as amylase.

Whole body vibration exercise combined with an extract of Coriandrum sativum modify some biochemical/physiological parameters in rats

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of the association of whole body vibration (WBV) exercise with an aqueous extract of coriander on the biodistribution of the radiopharmaceutical sodium pertechnetate, on the concentration of some plasma biomarker, on the feed intake, on the body mass, and on the stool consistency in rats. Rats were divided in four groups and submitted to different treatments for 40 days. The control group (CON) received deionized water. The group treated with coriander (COR) received the extract of coriander. The rats that were exposed to WBV exercises (WBV-E) also received deionized water. A group of animals received coriander and was exposed to WBV (COR + WBV-E). We found in testis a decrease (0.13 ± 0.01 to 0.06 ± 0.03) of the percentages of injected radioactivity per gram (%ATI/g) in the WBV-E in comparison with the COR. There is no significant alteration on the concentrations of the plasma biomarkers. The feed intake showed a statistically significant increase in WBV-E. No significant difference on the body mass was found. The stool analysis showed a statistical difference on the consistency between COR (hard and dry, darker) and all the other groups (normal). In conclusion, it was verified that possible modifications in some biochemical/physiological parameters of the rats submitted to WBV exercise would be capable to increase the feed intake without changing the body mass, and normalizing the stool consistency altered by the coriander supplementation. Further studies are needed to try to understand better the biological effects involving the association of WBV exercise and coriander.

Vibratory stimulation enhances thyroid epithelial cell function

The tissues of the body are routinely subjected to various forms of mechanical vibration, the frequency, amplitude, and duration of which can contribute both positively and negatively to human health. The vocal cords, which are in close proximity to the thyroid, may also supply the thyroid with important mechanical signals that modulate hormone production via mechanical vibrations from phonation. In order to explore the possibility that vibrational stimulation from vocalization can enhance thyroid epithelial cell function, FRTL-5 rat thyroid cells were subjected to either chemical stimulation with thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), mechanical stimulation with physiological vibrations, or a combination of the two, all in a well-characterized, torsional rheometer-bioreactor. The FRTL-5 cells responded to mechanical stimulation with significantly (p<0.05) increased metabolic activity, significantly (p<0.05) increased ROS production, and increased gene expression of thyroglobulin and sodium-iodide symporter compared to un-stimulated controls, and showed an equivalent or greater response than TSH only stimulated cells. Furthermore, the combination of TSH and oscillatory motion produced a greater response than mechanical or chemical stimulation alone. Taken together, these results suggest that mechanical vibrations could provide stimulatory cues that help maintain thyroid function.

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Thyroid epithelial cells responded to mechanical vibrations similar to those from vocalization.

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This response was equivalent or greater compared to chemical stimulation.

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The combination of mechanical and chemical stimulation was synergistic.

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It may be possible to influence thyroid function with mechanical vibrations.

The effects of long-term whole-body vibration and aerobic exercise on body composition and bone mineral density in obese middle-aged women

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the effectiveness of whole-body passive vibration exercise and its differences from aerobic exercise on body composition, bone mineral density (BMD) and bone mineral content (BMC).

METHODS

Obese middle-aged women (n=33 out of 45) with 34±3% body fat completed the training protocol. They were randomly assigned into diet (n=9; control group), diet plus whole-body vibration exercise (n=13; vibration group), and diet plus aerobic exercise (n=11; aerobic group) groups and we compared their body composition, BMD, and BMC before and after 9 months of training. There were no significant differences in nutrient intake among groups during the training period.

RESULTS

Relative body fat (%) decreased significantly (p < .05) in all three groups and the exercise groups showed a greater reduction in fat mass than the diet only group. BMD in the whole body, lumbar spine, hip and forearm were not significantly different among the three groups. Total body BMC increased significantly in the vibration group throughout the first 6 months of training.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest that long- term vibration training when used in conjunction with a diet program is as effective as aerobic exercise with a diet program in improving body composition of obese middle-aged women without compromising BMC or BMD. Thus, it can be considered a novel and effective method for reducing body fat.

Clinical applications of vibration therapy in orthopaedic practice

BACKGROUND

Vibration therapy (VT) has been proposed as an option to improve physical performance and reduce the negative effects of ageing on bone, muscles and tendons. Several discrepancies exist on the type of applications, frequency and magnitude. These differences reflex on the contradictory clinical results in literature. Aim of the present study is to carry on an exhaustive review to focus on technical options on the market, clinical applications in orthopaedic practice and expected outcomes.

METHODS

a literature review using the key words "vibration therapy" and "whole-body vibration" and "orthopaedics" was performed. After checking the available abstracts 71 full text articles were evaluated.

RESULTS

fifty-one articles focused on the effects of VT on muscles and tendons reporting ways of action and clinical outcomes. In a similar way 20 studies focused on the influence of VT on bone tissue with regard on ways of action and clinical trials.

CONCLUSIONS

VT provides anabolic mechanical signals to bone and musculo-tendinous system. The best effects seem to be achieved with devices that deliver low-intensity stimuli at high frequencies providing linear horizontal displacement.

Energy Expenditure and Substrate Oxidation in Response to Side-Alternating Whole Body Vibration across Three Commonly-Used Vibration Frequencies

Background and Aim

There is increasing recognition about the importance of enhancing energy expenditure (EE) for weight control through increases in low-intensity physical activities comparable with daily life (1.5–4 METS). Whole-body vibration (WBV) increases EE modestly and could present both a useful adjuvant for obesity management and tool for metabolic phenotyping. However, it is unclear whether a “dose-response” exists between commonly-used vibration frequencies (VF) and EE, nor if WBV influences respiratory quotient (RQ), and hence substrate oxidation. We aimed to investigate the EE-VF and RQ-VF relationships across three different frequencies (30, 40, and 50Hz).

Methods

EE and RQ were measured in 8 healthy young adults by indirect calorimetry at rest, and subsequently during side-alternating WBV at one of 3 VFs (30, 40, and 50 Hz). Each frequency was assessed over 5 cycles of intermittent WBV (30s vibration/30s rest), separated by 5 min seated rest. During the WBV participants stood on the platform with knees flexed sufficiently to maintain comfort, prevent transmission of vibration to the upper body, and minimise voluntary physical exertion. Repeatability was assessed across 3 separate days in a subset of 4 individuals. In order to assess any sequence/habituation effect, an additional group of 6 men underwent 5 cycles of intermittent WBV (30s vibration/30s rest) at 40 Hz, separated by 5 min seated rest.

Results

Side-alternating WBV increased EE relative to standing, non-vibration levels (+36%, p<0.001). However, no differences in EE were observed across VFs. Similarly, no effect of VF on RQ was found, nor did WBV alter RQ relative to standing without vibration.

Conclusion

No relationship could be demonstrated between EE and VF in the range of 30-50Hz, and substrate oxidation did not change in response to WBV. Furthermore, the thermogenic effect of intermittent WBV, whilst robust, was quantitatively small (<2 METS).

Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation Combined with Whole-Body Vibration Training Affects Testosterone Level and Body Composition in Mice

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the most abundant sex steroid, is primarily secreted by the adrenal gland and a precursor hormone used by athletes for performance enhancement. Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a well-known light-resistance exercise by automatic adaptations to rapid and repeated oscillations from a vibrating platform, which is also a simple and convenient exercise for older adults. However, the potential effects of DHEA supplementation combined with WBV training on to body composition, exercise performance, and hormone regulation are currently unclear. The objective of the study is to investigate the effects of DHEA supplementation combined with WBV training on body composition, exercise performance, and physical fatigue-related biochemical responses and testosterone content in young-adult C57BL/6 mice. In this study, male C57BL/6 mice were divided into four groups (n = 8 per group) for 6-weeks treatment: sedentary controls with vehicle (SC), DHEA supplementation (DHEA, 10.2 mg/kg), WBV training (WBV; 5.6 Hz, 2 mm, 0.13 g), and WBV training with DHEA supplementation (WBV+DHEA; WBV: 5.6 Hz, 2 mm, 0.13 g and DHEA: 10.2 mg/kg). Exercise performance was evaluated by forelimb grip strength and exhaustive swimming time, as well as changes in body composition and anti-fatigue levels of serum lactate, ammonia, glucose, creatine kinase (CK), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) after a 15-min swimming exercise. In addition, the biochemical parameters and the testosterone content were measured at the end of the experiment. Six-week DHEA supplementation alone significantly increased mice body weight (BW), muscle weight, testosterone level, and glycogen contents (liver and muscle) when compared with SC group. DHEA supplementation alone had no negative impact on all tissue and biochemical profiles, but could not improve exercise performance. However, WBV+DHEA supplementation also significantly decreased BW, testosterone level and glycogen content of liver, as well as serum lactate and ammonia levels after the 15-min swimming exercise when compared with DHEA supplementation alone. Although DHEA supplementation alone had no beneficial effect in the exercise performance of mice, the BW, testosterone level and glycogen content significantly increased. On the other hand, WBV training combined with DHEA decreased the BW gain, testosterone level and glycogen content caused by DHEA supplementation. Therefore, WBV training could inhibit DHEA supplementation to synthesis the testosterone level or may decrease the DHEA supplement absorptive capacity in young-adult mice.

Effects of whole body vibration training on body composition, skeletal muscle strength, and cardiovascular health

Whole body vibration training (WBVT) has been used as a supplement to conventional exercise training such as resistance exercise training to improve skeletal muscle strength, specifically, in rehabilitation field. Recently, this exercise modality has been utilized by cardiovascular studies to examine whether WBVT can be a useful exercise modality to improve cardiovascular health. These studies reported that WBVT has not only beneficial effects on muscular strength but also cardiovascular health in elderly and disease population. However, its mechanism underlying the beneficial effects of WBVT in cardiovascular health has not been well documented. Therefore, this review highlighted the impacts of WBVT on cardiovascular health, and its mechanisms in conjunction with the improved muscular strength and body composition in various populations.

Acute and Chronic Whole-Body Vibration Exercise does not Induce Health-Promoting Effects on The Blood Profile

Whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise is an alternative, popular and easy exercise that can be followed by general public. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to investigate the influence of acute and chronic WBV exercise on health-related parameters. Twenty-eight women were allocated into a control group (n=11, mean ±SEM: age, 43.5 ±1.5 yr; body mass, 66.1 ±3.1 kg; height, 160.6 ±1.5 cm) and a vibration group (n=17, mean ±SEM: age, 44.0 ±1.0 yr; body mass, 67.1 ±2.2 kg; height, 162.5 ±1.5 cm). After baseline assessments, participants of the experimental group performed WBV training 3 times/week for 8 weeks. Before and after the chronic WBV exercise, the participants of the vibration group performed one session of acute WBV exercise. Blood chemistry measurements (hematology, creatine kinase, lactate dehydrogenase, aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, C-reactive protein, glucose, insulin, triacylglycerols, total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein, thiobarbituric-acid reactive substances, protein carbonyls, total antioxidant capacity, uric acid, albumin and bilirubin) were assessed pre-exercise and post-exercise at the first and eighth week of WBV exercise in both control and vibration groups. The results failed to support any effect of both acute and chronic WBV exercise on biochemical health-related parameters. However, it seems that WBV exercise is a safe way of training without a negative impact on muscle and liver functionality.

Vibration Training Triggers Brown Adipocyte Relative Protein Expression in Rat White Adipose Tissue

Recently, vibration training is considered as a novel strategy of weight loss; however, its mechanisms are still unclear. In this study, normal or high-fat diet-induced rats were trained by whole body vibration for 8 weeks. We observed that the body weight and fat metabolism index, blood glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, and free fatty acid in obesity rats decreased significantly compared with nonvibration group (n = 6). Although intrascapular BAT weight did not change significantly, vibration enhanced ATP reduction and increased protein level of the key molecule of brown adipose tissue (BAT), PGC-1α, and UCP1 in BAT. Interestingly, the adipocytes in retroperitoneal white adipose tissue (WAT) became smaller due to vibration exercise and had higher protein level of the key molecule of brown adipose tissue (BAT), PGC-1α, and UCP1 and inflammatory relative proteins, IL-6 and TNFα. Simultaneously, ATP content and PPARγ protein level in WAT became less in rats compared with nonvibration group. The results indicated that vibration training changed lipid metabolism in rats and promoted brown fat-like change in white adipose tissues through triggering BAT associated gene expression, inflammatory reflect, and reducing energy reserve.

Whole-Body Vibration as a Modality for the Rehabilitation of Peripheral Neuropathies: Implications for Cancer Survivors Suffering from Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy

The objective was to study the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) on strength, balance and pain in patients with peripheral neuropathies and to consider its significance for the rehabilitation of patients suffering from chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Using a broad search strategy, PubMed was searched for clinical trials on WBV interventions aimed at improving strength, balance or pain in patients with peripheral neuropathies, which were published in English until 5(th) June 2014. The search was performed by the first author and generated a total of 505 results, which yielded 5 articles that met the inclusion criteria, being studies: i) published in English; ii) involving adult human subjects' peripheral neuropathies; iii) evaluating the effect of WBV as a therapeutic intervention; and iv) reporting findings for at least one of the following outcomes: strength, balance or pain. Methodological quality of included studies was assessed independently by first and second author, using the physiotherapy evidence database scale. The overall methodological quality of included studies was low. Two studies found a beneficial effect of WBV on neuropathic pain, but another study failed to find the same effect. One study found significant improvements in both muscle strength and balance, while another study found improvements only in some, but not all, of the applied tests to measure muscle strength and balance. The results of this literature search suggest insufficient evidence to assess the effectiveness for the effects of WBV on neuropathic pain, muscle strength and balance in patients with peripheral neuropathies. More high-quality trials are needed to guide the optimization of rehabilitation programs for cancer survivors with CIPN in particular.

Acceleration training for managing nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: a pilot study

BACKGROUND

While aerobic training is generally recommended as therapeutic exercise in guidelines, the effectiveness of resistance training has recently been reported in the management of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Acceleration training (AT) is a new training method that provides a physical stimulation effect on skeletal muscles by increasing gravitational acceleration with vibration. AT has recently been indicated as a component of medicine. In this study, we evaluated the effectiveness of AT in the management of NAFLD in obese subjects.

METHODS

A total of 18 obese patients with NAFLD who had no improvement in liver function test abnormalities and/or steatosis grade after 12 weeks of lifestyle counseling were enrolled in an AT program. These patients attended a 20-minute session of AT twice a week for 12 consecutive weeks.

RESULTS

During the AT program, the NAFLD patients showed a modest increase in the strength (+12.6%) and cross-sectional area (+3.1%) of the quadriceps, coupled with a significant reduction in intramyocellular lipids (-26.4%). Notably, they showed a modest reduction in body weight (-1.9%), abdominal visceral fat area (-3.4%), and hepatic fat content (-8.7%), coupled with a significant reduction in levels of aminotransferase (-15.7%), γ-glutamyltransferase (-14.4%), leptin (-9.7%), interleukin-6 (-26.8%), and tumor necrosis factor-α (-17.9%), and a significant increase of adiponectin (+8.7%). On a health-related quality of life survey, the patients showed an improvement in physical functioning (+17.3%), physical role (+9.7%), general health (+22.1), and social functioning (+6.0%).

CONCLUSION

AT reduced hepatic and intramyocellular fat contents and ameliorated liver function test abnormalities in obese patients with NAFLD, which was coupled with improved physical function and body adiposity. AT is clinically beneficial for the management of NAFLD.

Hormonal and neuromuscular responses to mechanical vibration applied to upper extremity muscles

Objective

To investigate the acute residual hormonal and neuromuscular responses exhibited following a single session of mechanical vibration applied to the upper extremities among different acceleration loads.

Methods

Thirty male students were randomly assigned to a high vibration group (HVG), a low vibration group (LVG), or a control group (CG). A randomized double-blind, controlled-parallel study design was employed. The measurements and interventions were performed at the Laboratory of Biomechanics of the University of L'Aquila. The HVG and LVG participants were exposed to a series of 20 trials ×10 s of synchronous whole-body vibration (WBV) with a 10-s pause between each trial and a 4-min pause after the first 10 trials. The CG participants assumed an isometric push-up position without WBV. The outcome measures were growth hormone (GH), testosterone, maximal voluntary isometric contraction during bench-press, maximal voluntary isometric contraction during handgrip, and electromyography root-mean-square (EMG_rms) muscle activity (pectoralis major [PM], triceps brachii [TB], anterior deltoid [DE], and flexor carpi radialis [FCR]).

Results

The GH increased significantly over time only in the HVG (P = 0.003). Additionally, the testosterone levels changed significantly over time in the LVG (P = 0.011) and the HVG (P = 0.001). MVC during bench press decreased significantly in the LVG (P = 0.001) and the HVG (P = 0.002). In the HVG, the EMG_rms decreased significantly in the TB (P = 0.006) muscle. In the LVG, the EMG_rms decreased significantly in the DE (P = 0.009) and FCR (P = 0.006) muscles.

Conclusion

Synchronous WBV acutely increased GH and testosterone serum concentrations and decreased the MVC and their respective maximal EMG_rms activities, which indicated a possible central fatigue effect. Interestingly, only the GH response was dependent on the acceleration with respect to the subjects' responsiveness.

Protection of Dopamine Neurons by Vibration Training and Up-Regulation of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in a MPTP Mouse Model of Parkinson's Disease

It is unknown whether the longer duration of vibration training (VT) has a beneficial effect on Parkinson's disease (PD). And also, the mechanisms underlying the reported sensorimotor-improvement in PD induced by short-duration of VT has not been determined. Here, we investigated the effects of longer duration (4 weeks) of low amplitude vibration (LAV) training on the numbers of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra by immunostaining and the levels of dopamine (DA) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the striatum by HPLC and ELISA in the chronic MPTP lesion mouse. We demonstrated for the first time that the longer duration of VT could significantly increase the numbers of nigrostriatal DA neurons and the contents of striatal DA and BDNF in the MPTP mice. Our findings implied that longer duration of VT could protect dopaminergic neurons from the MPTP-induced damage probably by upregulating BDNF and also provided evidence for the beneficial effect of longer duration of VT on PD at the cellular and molecular level.

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.

Effect of whole body vibration applied on upper extremity muscles

The acute residual effect of whole body vibration (WBV) on upper extremity muscles and testosterone secretion was studied. Eight highly (G1), nine moderately trained gymnasts (G2) and seven physically active persons (CG) were recruited for the investigation. The intervention occurred in push-up position with the elbow flexed at 90°. G1 and G2 received 30 s, 30 Hz and 6 mm amplitude vibration repeated five times. Subjects were tested before and after one and ten minutes intervention in push-up movement. Contact time (Tc), fly time (Tf), TF/Tc ratio and impulse was measured from the ground reaction force-time curves recorded during self-selected (SSRM) and full range of motion (FRM). Testosterone level in urine was also determined. Tf increased significantly in SSRM for G1 and decreased in SSRM and FRM for G2. Tf/Tc ratio in FRM and impulse in SSRM increased significantly for G1 only. No significant alteration in testosterone level was observed. We concluded that WBV is a reasonable training modality for influencing dynamic work of upper extremity muscle, but the reaction to WBV is training and individual dependent. It seems that WBV do not influence dynamic work through increased testosterone secretion because of the relatively low mass of the involved muscles.

Whole-body vibration training in children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy

INTRODUCTION

Whole-body-vibration training is used to improve muscle strength and function and might therefore constitute a potential supportive therapy for neuromuscular diseases.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate safety of whole-body vibration training in ambulatory children with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) and spinal muscular atrophy (SMA).

METHODS

14 children with DMD and 8 with SMA underwent an 8-week vibration training programme on a Galileo MedM at home (3 × 3 min twice a day, 5 days a week). Primary outcome was safety of the training, assessed clinically and by measuring serum creatine kinase levels. Secondary outcome was efficacy as measured by changes in time function tests, muscle strength and angular degree of dorsiflexion of the ankles.

RESULTS

All children showed good clinical tolerance. In boys with DMD, creatine kinase increased by 56% after the first day of training and returned to baseline after 8 weeks of continuous whole-body vibration training. No changes in laboratory parameters were observed in children with SMA. Secondary outcomes showed mild, but not significant, improvements with the exception of the distance walked in the 6-min walking test in children with SMA, which rose from 371.3 m to 402.8 m (p < 0.01).

INTERPRETATION

Whole-body vibration training is clinically well tolerated in children with DMD and SMA. The relevance of the temporary increase in creatine kinase in DMD during the first days of training is unclear, but it is not related to clinical symptoms or deterioration.