Acute changes in neuromuscular excitability after exhaustive whole body vibration exercise as compared to exhaustion by squatting exercise

The impact of whole-body vibration training and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on biomechanical characteristics of lower extremity during cutting movement in individuals with functional ankle instability: A parallel-group study

BACKGROUND

We compared the effects of whole-body vibration training and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation on the biomechanical characteristics of the lower limbs in functional ankle instability patients during cutting movement to ascertain the superior rehabilitation method.

METHODS

Twenty-two male College students with unilateral functional ankle instability volunteered for this study and were randomly divided into whole-body vibration training group and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation group. Kinematics data and ground reaction forces were collected using infrared motion capture system and 3-D force plates synchronously during cutting. Repeated measures two-way ANOVA was performed to analyze the data.

FINDINGS

Both training methods reduced the maximum hip abduction angle (p = 0.010, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = 0.69; whole-body vibration training = 0.20), maximum knee flexion angle (p = 0.008, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = 0.39, whole-body vibration training = 1.26) and angular velocity (p = 0.014, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = 0.62, whole-body vibration training = 0.55), maximum ankle inversion angular velocity (p = 0.020, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = 0.52, whole-body vibration training = 0.81), and knee flexion angle at the time of maximum vertical ground reaction forces (p = 0.018, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = 0.27, whole-body vibration training = 0.76), and increased the maximum ankle dorsiflexion moment (p = 0.049, effect size: proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation = -0.52, whole-body vibration training = -0.22). Whole-body vibration training reduced the maximum ground reaction forces value in the mediolateral directions (p = 0.010, effect size = 0.82) during cutting movement.

INTERPRETATION

These findings suggested that the two types of training might increase neuromuscular conduction function around the ankle. After these two types of training, functional ankle instability patients showed a similar risk of injury to the lateral ankle ligaments during cutting.

Effect of Whole-Body Vibration on Balance or Proprioception in Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review

Objective

This systematic review aimed to investigate the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) on balance or proprioception for patients with nonspecific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP).

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted using 5 databases-PubMed, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Physiotherapy Evidence Database-from inception to January 2022. Randomized clinical trials that examined the efficacy of WBV on balance or proprioception in patients with NSCLBP were incorporated. The methodological quality of each included study was assessed using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale.

Results

Our search strategy yielded 5309 articles, of which 7 published randomized clinical trials (313 patients) met the inclusion criteria. Three of the 4 included studies that investigated balance reported significant improvements after WBV, of which 2 were of high methodological quality. The remaining 3 studies investigating proprioception also showed significant improvements after WBV intervention.

Conclusion

Although some studies seem to provide promising results regarding the efficacy of WBV or WBV combined with exercise in improving balance and proprioception in patients with NSCLBP, at present, no definite conclusions can be drawn due to article heterogeneity and lack of clinical trials.

Effects of whole-body vibration therapy on pain, functionality, postural stability, and proprioception in patients with subacute and chronic non-specific low back pain: a systematic review

INTRODUCTION

Non-specific low back pain (NLBP) is a common and clinically significant condition with substantial socioeconomic implications. Whole-body vibration therapy (WBVT) has shown effectiveness in improving pain and sensorimotor function (e.g., in osteoporosis) in previous studies. However, studies had heterogeneous settings. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of WBVT on pain, function, proprioception, and postural stability in patients with subacute and chronic NLBP.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in the scientific databases PubMed, EMBASE, and PEDro (from inception until 17.05.2023). Only prospective controlled and uncontrolled studies were included. Outcome measures assessed were pain intensity, function (activities of daily living and physical function), proprioception, and postural stability.

RESULTS

A total of 12 original articles (n = 821) were included in the analysis. Ten of the studies were randomized controlled trials, one study had a crossover design, and one study had a one-group pre-post study design. The studies compared WBVT vs. no intervention, WBVT vs. basic physical therapy, WBVT vs. core stabilization exercises with and without respiratory resistance, WBVT vs. lumbar extension exercises, and WBVT vs. whole body electromyostimulation training. The treatment approaches varied in terms of duration (2-18 weeks), frequency (2-3 times per week, two applications with a 2-week break), vibration frequency (5-30 Hz), type of exercises (WBVT with or without static or dynamic exercises), and vibration direction (horizontal and vertical). Significant pain reduction was observed in all 10 studies that investigated pain levels. Significant improvement in daily activity function was reported in five of the six studies that investigated daily function, while improvement in physical function was observed in all four studies that investigated physical function. Improvement in proprioception was reported in all three studies that investigated proprioception, and significant improvement in postural stability was observed in four out of six studies that investigated postural stability. No adverse events or side effects related to WBVT were reported.

CONCLUSION

The majority of the included studies demonstrated significant pain reduction, improvement in physical and daily functioning, and enhanced proprioception. Improvement in postural stability was less consistent. WBVT appears to be a safe and effective treatment modality for subacute and chronic NLBP when used within a multimodal approach. Future research should focus on standardized settings including assessment methods, treatment regimens, frequencies, and intensities.

The Role of the Vocal Tract's Acousto-Mechanical Resonance on the Mechanism of Bubble Release From Tubes Used in SOVTE

AND OBJECTIVES

Semi-occluded vocal tract exercises involving a tube with a distal end immersed in water have been used as a voice rehabilitation technique for nearly 60 years. Advantages of this technique include a constant flow resistance, which is mainly dependent on the tube's immersion depth, and an oscillatory component of the back pressure due to bubble release, which is assumed to provide relief of muscle hypertension around the laryngeal and pharyngeal regions. The goal of this study is twofold. First, to shed more light on the contribution of geometrical parameters, such as tube inner diameter and inclination, on the amplitude of the back pressure oscillation and on the bubble release frequency (BRF). The second goal aims to understand the role of vocal tract compliance on the mechanism of bubble release. We hypothesize that the low-frequency acousto-mechanical resonance of a real compliant vocal tract becomes strongly coupled with the mechanism of bubble release, thereby augmenting the back pressure oscillation and dictating the BRF.

METHODS

The BRF and the back pressure are assessed experimentally as a function of flow rate for tubes with a non-compliant upstream condition, considering different diameters and inclinations. These results are compared with theoretical predictions and the experimental data obtained with six adult subjects, from which the vocal tract acousto-mechanical resonance frequencies are also assessed.

RESULTS

The results obtained with tubes involving a non-compliant upstream condition agreed well with the theoretical results and did not indicate a significant influence of the inclination nor the inner diameter on the BRF and on the oscillatory component of the back pressure. Despite the good agreement with the theory, the results obtained from the tube with a non-compliant upstream termination diverged significantly from those obtained with human subjects. In the latter case, the back pressure fluctuation was considerably higher and the BRF measured for each subject coincided with the frequency associated their respective vocal tract acousto-mechanical resonance.

CONCLUSIONS

Results indicate that the BRF is essentially driven by the acousto-mechanical resonance of the vocal tract. Furthermore, the substantial increase on the amplitude of the oscillatory component of the back pressure suggests a strong feedback loop between the source of pressure (bubble release mechanism) and the resonator (vocal tract). The high-pressure fluctuations within the oral cavity implies that subjects need a considerable extra effort to adjust their vocal tract in order to achieve an adequate impedance match between vocal folds and vocal tractsd to produce voice.

Effect of Whole-body Vibration frequency on muscle tensile state during graded plantar flexor isometric contractions

Background

Acute physiological and biomechanical alterations have been reported following whole-body vibration (WBV). Stiffening of muscles has only been anecdotally reported in response to WBV. Accordingly, this study investigated active plantar flexor muscle stiffness in response to a single WBV bout at four mechanical vibration frequencies.

Methods

Thirteen healthy adults (37.1 ± 14.4 years old) randomly received WBV in 4 different frequencies (6, 12, 24, and 0 Hz control) for 5 min. Shear wave speed (SWS) in longitudinal and transverse projections, architecture, and electric muscle activity were recorded in the medial gastrocnemius (MG) and soleus (SOL) muscle during graded plantar flexor contraction. Subjective rating of perceived muscle stiffness was assessed via Likert-scale.

Results

SWS of the MG at rest was enhanced in response to 5 min of 24 Hz WBV (p = 0.025), while a small reduction in SOL SWS was found during contraction (p = 0.005) in the longitudinal view. Subjective stiffness rating was increased following 12 Hz intervention. After 24 Hz WBV, pennation angle for MG was decreased (p = 0.011) during contraction. As a secondary finding, plantar flexor strength was significantly increased with each visit, which, however, did not affect the study's main outcome because of balanced sequence allocation.

Conclusion

SWS effects were solely limited to 24 Hz mechanical vibration and in the longitudinal projection. The observed effects are compatible with an interpretation by post-activation potentiation, warm-up, and force-distribution within the triceps surae muscles following 5 min WBV. The outcome may suggest SWS as a useful tool for assessing acute changes in muscle stiffness.

Does whole-body vibration training have a positive effect on balance and walking function in patients with stroke? A meta-analysis

Objective

After a stroke, patients usually suffer from dysfunction, such as decreased balance ability, and abnormal walking function. Whole-body vibration training can promote muscle contraction, stimulate the proprioceptive system, enhance the muscle strength of low limbs and improve motor control ability. The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of whole-body vibration training on the balance and walking function of patients with stroke.

Methods

PubMed, CNKI, VIP, CBM, EBSCO, Embase and Web of Science were searched. According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, randomized controlled trials on the effectiveness of whole-body vibration training on the balance and walking function of patients with stroke were collected. The search time ranged from the date of database construction to November 2022. The included trials were evaluated by the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The meta-analysis was performed using two software packages, consisting of RevMan 5.4 and Stata 12.2. If the results included in the literature were continuous variables, use the mean difference (MD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for statistics.

Results

(1) A total of 22 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with a total of 1089 patients were included. (2) The results of meta-analysis showed that: compared with the controls, step length (MD = 6.12, 95%CI [5.63, 6.62], p < 0.001), step speed (MD = 0.14, 95%CI [0.09, 0.20], p < 0.001), cadence (MD = 9.03, 95%CI [2.23, 15.83], p = 0.009), stride length (MD = 6.74, 95%CI [-3.47, 10.01], p < 0.001), Berg Balance Scale (BBS) (MD = 4.08, 95%CI [2.39, 5.76], p < 0.001), Timed Up-and-Go test (TUGT) (MD = -2.88, 95%CI [-4.94, 0.81], p = 0.006), 10-meter Walk Test (10MWT) (MD = -2.69, 95%CI [-3.35, -2.03], p < 0.001), functional ambulation category scale (FAC) (MD = 0.78, 95%CI [0.65, 0.91], p < 0.001), Fugl-Meyer motor assessment of lower extremity (FMA-LE) (MD = 4.10, 95%CI [2.01, 6.20], p = 0.0001). (3) The results of subgroup analysis showed that, compared with other vibration frequencies, at 20-30 Hz frequency, WBV training had an obvious improvement effect only in TUGT. (4) The safety analysis showed that WBV training may be safe.

Conclusion

Whole-body vibration training has a positive effect on the balance and walking function of patients with stroke. Thus, whole-body vibration training is a safe treatment method to improve the motor dysfunction of patients with stroke.

Systematic review registration

[http://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO], identifier [CRD4202348263].

Adding Vibration During Varied-Intensity Work Intervals Increases Time Spent Near Maximal Oxygen Uptake in Well-Trained Cyclists

PURPOSE

Previous research suggests that the percentage of maximal oxygen uptake attained and the time it is sustained close to maximal oxygen uptake (eg, >90%) can serve as a good criterion to judge the effectiveness of a training stimulus. The aim of this study was to investigate the acute effects of adding vibration during varied high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions on physiological and neuromuscular responses.

METHODS

Twelve well-trained cyclists completed a counterbalanced crossover protocol, wherein 2 identical varied HIIT cycling sessions were performed with and without intermittent vibration to the lower-intensity workloads of the work intervals (6 × 5-min work intervals and 2.5-min active recovery). Each 5-minute work interval consisted of 3 blocks of 40 seconds performed at 100% of maximal aerobic power interspersed with 60-second workload performed at a lower power output, equal to the lactate threshold plus 20% of the difference between lactate threshold and maximal aerobic power. Oxygen uptake and electromyographic activity of lower and upper limbs were recorded during all 5-minute work intervals.

RESULTS

Adding vibration induced a longer time ≥90% maximal oxygen uptake (11.14 [7.63] vs 8.82 [6.90] min, d = 0.64, P = .048) and an increase in electromyographic activity of lower and upper limbs during the lower-intensity workloads by 20% (16%) and 34% (43%) (d = 1.09 and 0.83; P = .03 and .015), respectively.

CONCLUSION

Adding vibration during a varied HIIT session increases the physiological demand of the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems, indicating that this approach can be used to optimize the training stimulus of well-trained cyclists.

Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Hamstrings-to-Quadriceps Ratio, Walking Performance, and Postural Control in Children With Hemiparetic Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercises combined with traditional physiotherapy on the hamstrings-to-quadriceps (H:Q) ratio, walking ability, and control of posture in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy (CP).

METHODS

A total of 34 children with spastic hemiparetic CP (boys and girls) participated in this 2-arm, parallel, randomized controlled trial. The inclusion criteria were spasticity ranging from 1 to 1+, gross level skills (I and II), at least 1 meter tall, standing alone, and walking forward and backward. They were randomly allocated to the control group (traditional physiotherapy) and study group and were treated by the same physiotherapy program combined with WBV training (3 times per week for 2 successive months). Quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, walking performance, and postural control were evaluated before and after intervention by a blinded assessor.

RESULTS

The post-intervention values of the hamstring and quadriceps muscle force, gross motor function, and stability indices of the 2 groups were higher than the pre-values (P < .05). In addition, the post-values of the study group were higher than those of the control group (P < .05). Regarding the H:Q ratio, there was no significant difference between pre-values or the post-values of both groups (P = .948 and P = .397, respectively). There were no significant differences between the pre- and post-values of each group (P = .500 and P = .195, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Eight weeks of WBV training combined with traditional physiotherapy was more effective than traditional physiotherapy alone in improving walking ability and postural control. Furthermore, the combined intervention strengthened the quadriceps and hamstring muscles, with no change in the H:Q ratio in children with hemiparetic CP.

The Effect of Vibration Massage on Fatigue of the Upper Trapezius Muscle during Different Tasks

Background: Vibratory massage is now widely used to alleviate muscle fatigue. The effects of different vibration massage intensities on left and right upper trapezius (UT) fatigue have not been examined. Therefore, the present study first examined whether a vibration massage intervention had an effect on UT muscles and second compared the effects of 2 different levels (36 Hz and 46 Hz) of vibratory massage on the right and left oblique muscles under 3 different fatigue conditions. Methods: A total of 23 participants (12 female, 11 male; age: 26.5 ± 3.9 year, height: 170.5 ± 1.6 cm, mass: 57.5 ± 1.5 kg, BMI: 24.3 ± 1.6 kg/m2) were randomly divided into intervention and control groups. The 2 groups of subjects completed isometric contraction fatigue tasks of 30 s of fatigue, 60 s of fatigue and 90 s of fatigue in turn. The specific task of isotonic contraction was performed by subjects holding a 1 kg dumbbell in each hand and performing a straight arm weighted lateral supination exercise. After each exercise, the intervention group was randomized to apply a massage device with a vibration intensity of 36 Hz or 46 Hz on the left and right UT muscles for 5 min each. The control group did not receive any treatment. Both groups then repeated the same fatigue task as before. Then, the effects of different vibration massage interventions on UT muscles were derived by analyzing the changes in maximal voluntary contraction percentage (MVC%) of surface electromyography (sEMG) signals before and after the intervention, and the most effective vibration massage program for relieving left and right UT fatigue was summarized. Then, four classification algorithms were used to label and classify the collected sEMG data, and finally a UT muscle fatigue identification and vibration massage model was constructed. Results: After using the vibration massage level 1 (36 Hz) intervention, the MVC% of the right UT muscle showed significant reductions in the 30 s fatigue task, the 60 s fatigue task and the 90 s fatigue task (R1: p = 0.022, R2: p = 0.005, R3: p = 0.049). After using the vibration massage level 3 (46 Hz) intervention, the MVC% of the right UT muscle showed a significant decrease in both the 60 s fatigue task and the 90 s fatigue task (R2: p = 0.033, R3: p = 0.028). Significant decreases in MVC% for the left UT muscle were found only in the 90 s fatigue task (L3: p = 0.040). Then, by comparing the different performances of four commonly used classification algorithms, it was found that the bagging (accuracy = 0.860) algorithm had higher accuracy. Therefore, the bagging algorithm was used for the UT fatigue identification and vibration massage models. Conclusions: This was the first study to show the impacts of different levels of vibration massage on fatigue alleviation in the left and right UT muscles. Furthermore, the bilateral UT fatigue identification and vibration massage model developed in this study can help people to choose the most appropriate massage protocol for quick relief and relaxation of the UT muscles under three different fatigue tasks.

Effect of direct vibration on the activity of deep trunk muscles of patients with non-specific chronic low back pain

BACKGROUND

Vibration training is an adjuvant to muscle-strengthening exercises.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the short-term effects of direct vibration on the deep trunk muscles of patients with non-specific chronic low back pain (CLBP).

METHODS

Participants with non-specific CLBP were randomly placed into two groups: the vibration-plus stabilization exercise (VSE) group (n= 31) and the conventional stabilization exercise (CSE) group (n= 31). The groups underwent 12 sessions of an exercise program. The thickness and activity of the trunk muscles were measured using ultrasonography and surface electromyography.

RESULTS

Ultrasonography revealed that the ratio of muscle thickness to contraction and relaxation was statistically increased after exercise in the bilateral transversus abdominis (TrA) and lumbar multifidus (LM) muscles in the CSE group (p= 0.031), and in the bilateral TrA, LM, and internal oblique (IO) muscles in the VSE group (p< 0.001). The LM/lumbar erector spinae (LES) ratio in the CSE group (p= 0.037), and the IO/rectus abdominis (RA), TrA/RA, and LM/LES ratios in the VSE group (p= 0.019) were statistically increased. Multiple regression analysis showed that symptom improvement was related to increased activity of the deep trunk muscles in the VSE group (p< 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Direct vibration can increase the selective activity of contracting deep trunk muscles.

Effects of Vibration Resistance Exercises on EMG and Skeletal Muscle Hemodynamics

Objectives: Past studies show that vibration can stimulate muscle activity and improve muscle performance. However, further verification is needed on the effects of different vibration frequencies combined with different muscle strength exercise intensities on EMG activity and skeletal muscle hemodynamics. Methods: We recruited 27 male college athletes for 40%, 60%, and 80% maximum voluntary contraction (MVC) tests at the vibration frequencies of 0 Hz, 10 Hz, 20 Hz, and 30 Hz. We collected EMG activity signals using wireless EMGs and skeletal muscle hemodynamic parameters using a near-infrared spectrometer. Results: At an 80% MVC intensity of the rectus femoris, the mean, peak, and area of EMG at 30 Hz were significantly increased, compared with those at 0 Hz. At a 40% MVC intensity with vibration frequencies of 10 Hz, 20 Hz, and 30 Hz, the HHb of skeletal muscles was significantly increased, while the O2Hb and TSI were significantly decreased, compared with those at 0 Hz. Conclusions: We conclude that high frequency and strongly vibrated muscle strength exercise can improve EMG activity, while vibration and low-intensity muscle strength exercise could increase the oxygen consumption of skeletal muscles.

Effects of Low-Frequency Whole-Body Vibration on Muscle Activation, Fatigue, and Oxygen Consumption in Healthy Young Adults: A Single-Group Repeated-Measures Controlled Trial

CONTEXT

Whole-body vibration (WBV) training improves muscle strength and balance. Few studies have focused on the effects of WBV frequencies below 30 Hz. We aimed to investigate the effect of low-frequency WBV training on muscle activity, fatigue recovery, and oxygen consumption (VO2).

DESIGN

Prospective single-group, repeated-measures study.

METHODS

In this controlled laboratory setting study, 20 healthy adults (age 23.26 [1.66] y) performed half squats at 0, 4, 6, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, and 30-Hz WBV. Muscle activity was evaluated using the root mean square and peak electromyography amplitude of 6 muscles (iliocostalis, rectus abdominis, rectus femoris, biceps femoris, tibialis anterior, and gastrocnemius) obtained via surface electromyography. VO2 was measured during the squats using a gas analyzer, and fatigue recovery was evaluated using measurements of lactate after the squats and after a recovery period. Statistical significance was set at P < .05, and analysis of variance was conducted to determine differences in muscle activity, fatigue, recovery, and VO2, with post hoc analyses as appropriate.

RESULTS

Of the 6 muscles measured, the muscle activity of the gastrocnemius alone significantly increased from 0 Hz at 4, 8, 12, 16, 24, and 30 Hz based on the root mean square values and at 4, 8, 12, and 30 Hz based on the peak electromyography amplitude values. There were no significant differences in the other muscles. There were no significant differences in VO2 or in lactate levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-frequency WBV during squat exercises significantly increased the activity of the gastrocnemius medialis only at specific frequencies in healthy young adults. Low-frequency WBV is safe and has the potential to increase muscle activity.

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.

Optimization of Exercise Countermeasures to Spaceflight Using Blood Flow Restriction

INTRODUCTION: During spaceflight missions, astronauts work in an extreme environment with several hazards to physical health and performance. Exposure to microgravity results in remarkable deconditioning of several physiological systems, leading to impaired physical condition and human performance, posing a major risk to overall mission success and crew safety. Physical exercise is the cornerstone of strategies to mitigate physical deconditioning during spaceflight. Decades of research have enabled development of more optimal exercise strategies and equipment onboard the International Space Station. However, the effects of microgravity cannot be completely ameliorated with current exercise countermeasures. Moreover, future spaceflight missions deeper into space require a new generation of spacecraft, which will place yet more constraints on the use of exercise by limiting the amount, size, and weight of exercise equipment and the time available for exercise. Space agencies are exploring ways to optimize exercise countermeasures for spaceflight, specifically exercise strategies that are more efficient, require less equipment, and are less time-consuming. Blood flow restriction exercise is a low intensity exercise strategy that requires minimal equipment and can elicit positive training benefits across multiple physiological systems. This method of exercise training has potential as a strategy to optimize exercise countermeasures during spaceflight and reconditioning in terrestrial and partial gravity environments. The possible applications of blood flow restriction exercise during spaceflight are discussed herein.Hughes L, Hackney KJ, Patterson SD. Optimization of exercise countermeasures to spaceflight using blood flow restriction. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 93(1):32-45.

An overview of the effects of whole-body vibration on individuals with cerebral palsy

The purpose of this review is to examine how whole-body vibration can be used as a tool in therapy to help improve common physical weaknesses in balance, bone density, gait, spasticity, and strength experienced by individuals with cerebral palsy. Cerebral palsy is the most common movement disorder in children, and whole-body vibration is quickly becoming a potential therapeutic tool with some advantages compared to traditional therapies for individuals with movement disorders. The advantages of whole-body vibration include less strain and risk of injury, more passive training activity, and reduced time to complete an effective therapeutic session, all of which are appealing for populations with physiological impairments that cause physical weakness, including individuals with cerebral palsy. This review involves a brief overview of cerebral palsy, whole-body vibration's influence on physical performance measures, its influence on physical performance in individuals with cerebral palsy, and then discusses the future directions of whole-body vibration therapy in the cerebral palsy population.

Effects of combined whole body vibration and resistance training on lower quadrants electromyographic activity, muscle strength and power in athletes

BACKGROUND

Whole body vibration (WBV) with resistance training is one of the increasing ways of gaining ankle and foot complex muscle strength and power for the rehabilitative and prophylactic purpose in athletes.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the study was to compare the effects of combined WBV and resistance training (RVE) with strength training alone (RE) on alteration of gastrocnemius lateralis and vastus medialis obliquus muscle activity and strength, and power performance in athletes.

METHODS

The study was performed on 23 university-level male athletes who were randomized into two groups as RVE (n = 12; age 22.2 ± 1.94 years) and RE (n = 11; age 21.60 ± 1.78 years). The training program was scheduled three times per week for six weeks (18 sessions). Gastrocnemius lateralis (GL) and vastus medialis obliquus (VMO) were measured for muscle activity and isometric strength with surface EMG device and handheld dynamometer respectively. Counter-movement jump (CMJ) was used for measuring power. All the participants were assessed for outcome measures at baseline and then after 6 weeks. Group (RVE vs. RE) by time (pre vs. post) effects were compared through a 2-way interaction utilizing mixed model repeated measure ANOVA.

RESULTS

After training, VMO muscle activity (group effects) increased significantly in the RVE group (p < 0.05). However, both the groups showed statistically significant time and group × time interaction effects for muscle activity of VMO, isometric strength (VMO and GL), and CMJ (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

WBV might serve as an adjunct modality for enhancement of the neuromuscular activity of the VMO muscle. However, RVE had no additive effect when compared to RE alone on muscle strength and power in athletes. The long-term impacts of combined WBV and resistance training on other foot and ankles muscle should be investigated in future studies.

Effect of Vibration Massage and Passive Rest on Recovery of Muscle Strength after Short-Term Exercise

Background: The aim of the study was to compare the effect of vibration massage and passive rest on accelerating the process of muscle recovery after short-term intense exercise. Methods: Eighty-four healthy men aged 20 to 25 years participated in the study. Study participants performed isometric (ISO-M Group) and auxotonic (AUX-M group) contraction exercise in the lower limbs. Vibration massage was administered after exercise in the first recovery period. In the same period, controls rested passively, without the support of vibration massage. To assess the effectiveness of the applied vibration, a 4-fold measurement of the maximum force of the muscles involved in the exercise was performed under conditions of isometric contractions on a leg press machine set at an angle of 45° degrees upwards. Results: Differences in maximum strength during isometric contraction were found compared to baseline in favor of the groups subjected to the experimental vibration massage. Differences were demonstrated in muscle strength between the study groups (p < 0.005). The second period of passive rest in all groups did not bring significant changes in the values of maximal lower limb strength. Conclusions: Properly selected characteristics of the vibration effect can be an effective method in accelerating recovery and regaining lost motor capabilities of muscle groups fatigued by exercise. This offers the potential to shorten rest periods between sets of repetitions in training or between training units.

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

BACKGROUND

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

AIM

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

METHODS

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

RESULTS

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

CONCLUSION

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

The Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Anticipatory Delay of Core Muscles in Patients with Nonspecific Low Back Pain

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine the effect of whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on the anticipatory delay of core muscles in nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) patients.

Methods

Forty participants with NSLBP were randomly divided into the WBV group and the control group. The sEMG signals of deltoid, erector spines (ES), multifidus (MF), rectus abdominis (RA), and transversus abdominus/internal oblique muscles (TrA/IO) were recorded before and after the intervention in the weight-shifting task. The relative activation time of each muscle was calculated.

Results

In the WBV group, the relative activation time of bilateral MF and bilateral TrA/IO was significantly reduced on shoulder flexion (right MF: P=0.014; left MF: P=0.011; right TrA/IO: P=0.008; left TrA/IO: P=0.026). As for shoulder abduction, except for the left TrA/IO and the left RA, the relative activation time of other muscles was significantly reduced (right ES: P=0.001; left ES: P < 0.001; right MF: P=0.001; left MF: P=0.009; right TrA/IO: P < 0.001; right RA: P=0.001). In the control group, there was no significant difference in the relative activation time of each muscle before and after the intervention (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

WBV exercise can effectively alleviate the anticipatory delay of core muscles in NSLBP patients, but the long-term effects still need further study. This trial is registered with ChiCTR-TRC-13003708.

Passive Recovery Strategies after Exercise: A Narrative Literature Review of the Current Evidence

ABSTRACT

Passive recovery techniques are popular and offer a diverse spectrum of options for athletes and the clinicians providing care for them. These techniques are intended to minimize the negative effects of training or competition, thus enabling the athlete a quicker return to peak performance. Current evidence demonstrates improved athlete recovery with compression garments, cold water immersion, partial body cryotherapy, hyperbaric oxygen, and vibratory therapies. Other popular modalities, such as compression devices, whole body cryotherapy, percussive gun-assisted therapy, neuromuscular electrical stimulation, and pulsed electromagnetic therapy lack convincing evidence concerning athlete recovery. This article seeks to review the current literature and offer the reader an updated understanding of the mechanisms for each modality and the evidence regarding each modality's potential benefit in an athlete's recovery strategy.

The Effects of Acute and Long-Term Whole-Body Vibration Training on the Postural Control During Cognitive Task in Patients With Chronic Ankle Instability

CONTEXT

Chronic ankle instability (CAI) is a common problem associated with impaired postural stability. Whole-body vibration (WBV) has been developed to improve muscle function and reportedly improves postural stability. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 sessions of WBV on postural control during standing postural task in participants with CAI.

DESIGN

A controlled clinical trial study.

METHODS

Sixteen participants with CAI and 16 healthy participants aged between 20 and 40 years included in this study. They received WBV (30-Hz frequency, 3 series of four 45-s exercises with a 45-s rest) for a total of 12 sessions, 2 session per week for 6 weeks. Postural control was assessed by center of pressure (COP) parameters, including mean and SD in the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral displacement during single-leg standing. Assessments were done before and immediately after the first session and after the 12th session of WBV, with opened and closed eyes associated with easy and difficult cognitive tasks.

RESULTS

The results showed that the SD of COP displacement in the x-axis was significant in eyes opened and SD of COP displacement in the x- and y-axes were significant between groups in the eyes-opened, and eyes-closed conditions (P < .05). Analysis of variance indicated that the effect of WBV training was significant for the mean of COP displacement in the y-axis. Post hoc indicated that the effect of 12 sessions of WBV on the mean of COP displacement was significant in the CAI group (P < .05). However, the acute effect of WBV was not significant on the COP displacement in all axes (P > .05).

CONCLUSION

Higher postural sway associated with postural cognitive interactions might be considered in the rehabilitation of CAI. Twelve sessions of WBV might induce some improvement in postural control with the method of WBV used in this study.

Effects of vibratory massage therapy on grip strength, endurance time and forearm muscle performance

BACKGROUND

Vibration therapy (VT) causes an increase in motor unit activation tendency, an involuntary recruitment of earlier sedentary motor units, which increases the muscle fiber force generating capacity and muscle performance.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of vibratory massage therapy at 23 Hz and 35 Hz on grip strength, endurance, and forearm muscle performance (in terms of EMG activity).

METHODS

Ten healthy and right-handed men participated voluntarily in this study. The experiment was characterized by the measurement of MVC (maximal voluntary contraction) grip strength and grip endurance time at 50%MVC, accompanied by the corresponding measurement of the EMG signals of the muscles viz., flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS); flexor carpi ulnaris (FCU); extensor carpi radialis brevis (ECRB); and extensor carpi ulnaris (ECU) in supine posture.

RESULTS

MANCOVA results showed significant effects of VT frequency on endurance time (p < 0.001); but no significant effect on the grip strength (p = 0.161) and muscle performance (in terms of EMG activities of the forearm muscles). However, VT improves the MVC grip strength and grip endurance time (better at 35 Hz). The Pearson correlation was significant between: weight, palm length, palm circumference, and forearm length with MVC grip strength; and the palm length with the endurance time. In addition, the palm length, palm circumference, and forearm circumference generally serve to better predict MVC grip strength and grip endurance time.

CONCLUSIONS

Vibration therapy at 35 Hz for 10 minutes on the forearms had a significant positive effect on the neuromuscular performance to enhance muscle performance of upper extermitites and can be used as the optimal range to study the effect of VT. Findings may be used to prepare guidelines for VT in rehabilitation, healthcare, sports, and medical for therapists.

Effects of whole-body vibration on quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, endurance, and power in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy: a randomized controlled study

Background

Hemiplegic cerebral palsy (CP) enormously affects the quadriceps and hamstring muscles. It causes weakness in the affected lower-extremity muscles in addition to muscle imbalance and inadequate power production, especially in the ankle plantar-flexor and knee extensor muscles. It also causes anomalous delayed myoelectrical action of the medial hamstring. A whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise can diminish muscle spasticity and improve walking speed, muscle strength, and gross motor function without causing unfavorable impacts in adults suffering from CP. Thus, the aim of this study is to investigate the impacts of WBV training associated with conventional physical therapy on the quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, endurance, and power in children with hemiparetic CP.

Results

The post-intervention values of the quadriceps and hamstring muscle force, endurance, and power were significantly higher than the pre-intervention values for both groups (p = 0.001). The post-intervention values of the study group were significantly higher than the control group (quadriceps force, p = 0.015; hamstring force, p = 0.030; endurance, p = 0.025; power, p = 0.014).

Conclusion

The 8 weeks of WBV training that was added to traditional physical therapy was more successful in improving the quadriceps and hamstring muscle strength, endurance, and power in children with hemiparetic CP when compared to traditional physical therapy alone.

Repair and remodeling of partial-weightbearing, uninstrumented long bone fracture model in mice treated with low intensity vibration therapy

BACKGROUND

While vibration therapy has shown encouraging results across many fields of medicine in the last decade, its role as originally envisioned for bone health remains uncertain. Especially regarding its efficacy in promoting fracture healing, mixed and incomplete outcomes suggest a need to clarify its potential. In particular, the definitive effect of vibration, when isolated from the confounding mechanical inputs of gait and stabilizing instrumentation, remains largely unknown.

METHODS

Four cohorts of C57BL/6 male mice underwent single-leg, open fibula fracture. Vibration was applied at 0.3 g to two groups for 20 min/d. At 3 and 6 weeks, fibulae were harvested for microcomputed tomography and 3-point bending to failure.

FINDINGS

In bone volume and tissue volume, the groups at each healing time point were statistically not different. At 3 weeks, however, the ratio of bone-to-tissue volume was lower for the vibrated group than control. Likewise, while bone mineral density did not differ, tissue volume density was lowest with vibration. At 6 weeks, mean differences were nominal. Biomechanically, vibration consistently trended ahead of control in strength and stiffness, but did not achieve statistical significance.

INTERPRETATION

At this stage of therapeutic development, vibration therapy in isolation does not demonstrate a clear efficacy for bone healing, although further treatment permutations and translational uses remain open for investigation.

Effects of whole-body vibrations on neuromuscular fatigue: a study with sets of different durations

BACKGROUND

Whole body vibrations have been used as an exercise modality or as a tool to study neuromuscular integration. There is increasing evidence that longer WBV exposures (up to 10 minutes) induce an acute impairment in neuromuscular function. However, the magnitude and origin of WBV induced fatigue is poorly understood.

PURPOSE

The study aimed to investigate the magnitude and origin of neuromuscular fatigue induced by half-squat long-exposure whole-body vibration intervention (WBV) with sets of different duration and compare it to non-vibration (SHAM) conditions.

METHODS

Ten young, recreationally trained adults participated in six fatiguing trials, each consisting of maintaining a squatting position for several sets of the duration of 30, 60 or 180 seconds. The static squatting was superimposed with vibrations (WBV30, WBV60, WBV180) or without vibrations (SHAM30, SHAM60, SHAM180) for a total exercise exposure of 9-minutes in each trial. Maximum voluntary contraction (MVC), level of voluntary activation (%VA), low- (T20) and high-frequency (T100) doublets, low-to-high-frequency fatigue ratio (T20/100) and single twitch peak torque (TWPT) were assessed before, immediately after, then 15 and 30 minutes after each fatiguing protocol.

RESULT

Inferential statistics using RM ANOVA and post hoc tests revealed statistically significant declines from baseline values in MVC, T20, T100, T20/100 and TWPT in all trials, but not in %VA. No significant differences were found between WBV and SHAM conditions.

CONCLUSION

Our findings suggest that the origin of fatigue induced by WBV is not significantly different compared to control conditions without vibrations. The lack of significant differences in %VA and the significant decline in other assessed parameters suggest that fatiguing protocols used in this study induced peripheral fatigue of a similar magnitude in all trials.

Is Accelerometry an Effective Method to Assess Muscle Vibrations in Comparison to Ultrafast Ultrasonography?

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess whether accelerometry effectively reflects muscle vibrations measured with ultrafast ultrasonography.

METHODS

Vibration characteristics initiated on the vastus lateralis muscle by an impactor were compared when assessed with accelerometry and ultrasonography. Continuous wavelet transforms and statistical parametric mapping (SPM) were performed to identify discrepancies in vibration power over time and frequency between the two devices.

RESULTS

The SPM analysis revealed that the accelerometer underestimated the muscle vibration power above 50 Hz during the first 0.06 seconds post impact. Furthermore, the accelerometer overestimated the muscle vibration power under 20 Hz, from 0.1 seconds after the impact. Linear regression revealed that the thicker the subcutaneous fat localized under the accelerometer, the more the muscle vibration frequency and damping were underestimated by the accelerometer.

CONCLUSION

The skin and the fat tissues acted like a low-pass filter above 50 Hz and oscillated in a less damped manner than the muscle tissue under 20 Hz.

SIGNIFICANCE

To eliminate some artifacts caused by the superficial tissues and assess the muscle vibration characteristics with accelerometry, it is suggested to 1) high-pass filter the acceleration signal at a frequency of 20 Hz, under certain conditions, and 2) include participants with less fat thickness. Therefore, the subcutaneous thickness must be systematically quantified under each accelerometer location to clarify the differences between subjects and muscles.

Salivary endocrine response following a maximal incremental cycling protocol with local vibration

The aim of this study was to compare the effects of vibration (Vib versus noVib) during a maximal graded cycling exercise on hormonal response, precisely on cortisol (C) and testosterone (T). Twelve active males (25 ± 5yrs; 181 ± 5cm; 80.7 ± 11.1kg) randomly performed two maximal incremental cycling tests on two separate days and at the same time of the day (09:00). The protocol consisted of incremental steps of 3 min duration performed on a PowerBIKE^TM that induces vibration cycling. The study was a repeated measures design and participants performed the test with and without vibration. Gas exchange and heart rate (HR) were continuously assessed and blood lactate (Bla) was recorded at the end of each incremental stage. Saliva samples were collected before and immediately after the test, and analysed for (C) and (T).

The results show that C and T increased in both cycling conditions; however, the C’s magnitude of change was significantly higher by 83% after Vib cycling in comparison to the no Vib (p = 0.014), whereas the T’s magnitude of change were not statistically different between trials (p = 0.715). Vibration induced a decrease of the T/C ratio (p = 0.046) but no significant changes were observed following noVib (p = 0.476). As a conclusion, the investigation suggests that adding mechanical vibration to cycling may potentiate a catabolic exercise-induced state, which could have potential clinical implications in rehabilitation and injury treatment. Sport experts should take this message home to carefully plan the recovery process and time during training and competitions.

Application of acute whole-body vibration and lower-body exercise: effects on concentric torque in lower-limb muscles

Study aim: With contrary evidence regarding the effectiveness of acute whole-body vibration training (WBVT) on sporting performance, the current study examined WBVT’s effect on concentric torque of the quadriceps (Q) and hamstrings (H).

Material and methods: Following ethical approval, 11 male team sport players (age: 22.9 ± 3.3 yrs, height: 1.80 ± 0.07 m, mass: 82.5 ± 12.6 kg) completed three separate weekly WBVT sessions. Baseline and post – WBVT intervention measurements of Q and H concentric torque were recorded, using an isokinetic dynamometer, at each session. Isokinetic knee extension and flexion was performed at 180os−1 through 90o range of motion. For the training intervention, vibration amplitude remained at 2 mm, while frequency was set at 0Hz, 30Hz or 50 Hz; randomised so participants experienced one frequency per session. Torque data (Nm) and H and Q ratio (H: Q) were analysed using 3-way and 2-way ANOVA with repeated measures respectively, with three within subjects’ factors: frequency, muscle group and intervention.

Results: Main interaction effect (frequency x muscle group x intervention) was insignificant (P = 0.327). Significant muscle group x frequency (P = 0.029) and muscle group x intervention (P = 0.001) interactions were found. Intervention, regardless of WBVT, significantly increased concentric torque of H (P = 0.003) and significantly reduced concentric torque of Q (P = 0.031). While H: Q x frequency interaction was insignificant (P = 0.262), the intervention significantly improved H: Q (P = 0.001).

Conclusions: Team sport athletes experience a muscle-specific response in peak concentric torque to lower-body exercise. Acute WBVT does not provide additional positive or negative effects on Q or H strength.

Efficacy of whole body vibration therapy on pain and functional ability in people with non-specific low back pain: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Whole body vibration (WBV) is currently increasing in popularity as a treatment modality for musculoskeletal disorders and improving health-related quality of life. Recent research has shown that WBV can reduce low back pain and improve the functional abilities for patients, however, optimal frequency and duration of vibration for therapeutic use is unclear. This review was conducted to summarize and determine the efficacy of whole body vibration therapy on individuals with non-specific low back pain (NLBP) and evaluated methodological quality of the included studies.

METHODS

Online literature searches through the Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane Library databases, PEDro, Ovid, EBSCO (Medline) and Scopus were conducted up to December 2019. Randomized controlled trials investigating the effect of WBV on pain intensity and/or functional ability in individuals with non-specific low back pain (NLBP) were included. Details of the sample characteristics, treatment of the comparison group, WBV parameters and outcome measures were recorded, and methodological quality appraised using the PEDro scale.

RESULTS

7 published RCTs (418 patients) were included in the systematic review. Due to heterogeneity in vibration parameters and prescriptions, and small number of studies, no meta-analysis was performed. Four out of the six included studies using pain as an outcome measure showed that WBV had a beneficial effect on pain compared with the control group, whereas only two trials were considered to be of high methodological quality. Among the six studies which measured functional ability, three studies with good quality reported significant between-group differences in favor of WBV.

CONCLUSIONS

There is limited evidence suggests that WBV is beneficial for NLBP when compared with other forms of interventions (stability training, classic physiotherapy, routine daily activity). Due to the small sample sizes and statistical heterogeneity, we still cannot draw conclusions that WBV is an effective intervention. Further high-quality studies are needed before clinical recommendations can be provided to support its use in a general population with NLBP and to explore the optimal treatment protocol.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

PROSPERO registration number: CRD42017074775.

Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Functional Mobility, Balance, Gait Strength, and Quality of Life in Institutionalized Older People: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

The aim of this study was to quantify the effect of whole-body vibration on balance, functional mobility, gait, functional performance, and quality of life in institutionalized older people. Eight databases were systematically reviewed, as recommended by the Cochrane Collaboration. This systematic review was designed to answer the acronym set by the participants, interventions, comparators, and outcomes (PICO)-model. Ten randomized controlled trials were included in the meta-analysis. The analysis of the mean differences (MDs) of the functional mobility assessed with Time Up and Go test was MD = -2.49 s (95% confidence interval, CI, [-4.37, -0.61]; I2 = 68%). In 279 participants from five studies, the overall MD = 0.49 (95% CI [-0.13, 1.11]; I2 = 23%) for gait, and MD = 0.96 (95% CI [-0.45, 2.37]; I2 = 85%) for balance, which represents the total Tinetti score, MD = 1.59 (95% CI [-0.52, 3.70]; I2 = 82%). In summary, whole-body vibration could have benefits on functional mobility in institutionalized older people.

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 combined with blood flow restriction on muscle adaptation

AbstractThis study investigated the effects of whole body vibration (WBV) training combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) on muscle fitness. Twenty physically inactive adults were randomly assigned to a WBV + BFR group (8 men and 2 women) and a WBV group (8 men and 2 women). The participants in the WBV group were subjected to 10 sets of intermittent WBV exercise 20 min/day, 3 days/week, for 8 weeks. The participants in the WBV + BFR group received the same WBV treatment, but the proximal portion of their thighs was compressed using inflatable cuffs. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry estimated thigh muscle mass, one repetition maximal (1RM) leg press, and muscle endurance were measured before and after the training programme. The results indicated that thigh muscle mass significantly increased (3%) after the 8-week training period only in the WBV + BFR group. Meanwhile, 1RM leg press and muscle endurance significantly increased in both groups after training (p < 0.05). Analysis of covariance revealed that the increase in 1RM leg press and muscle endurance was significantly higher (p < 0.05) in the WBV + BFR group than the WBV group (leg press: 11.1%. vs. 4.37%; muscle endurance: 48.84% vs. 15.19%, respectively). In conclusion, exposure to regular WBV + BFR training can increase thigh muscle mass, maximal strength, and muscle endurance compared with exposure to WBV training alone. WBV + BFR training appears to be a feasible strategy for improving muscle mass, strength, and endurance in previously untrained participants.

Efficacy of whole body vibration on neurocognitive parameters in women with and without lumbar hyper-lordosis

INTRODUCTION

The prevalence of lumbar hyper-lordosis is high in young women. Considering the previous studies into the effects of the whole body vibration (WBV) on the physiological parameters, the present study aimed to evaluate the immediate effects of WBV on the neurocognitive parameters in women with and without lumbar hyper-lordosis.

METHOD

A total of 15 women with normal lumbar lordosis and 15 women with lumbar hyper-lordosis participated in the study. The effects of the WBV (30 Hz, 5 mm, and 5 min) on the visual and auditory reaction time and anticipatory skills were assessed using the Speed Anticipation Reaction Time (SART) Test.

RESULTS

The results indicated that the auditory complex choice reaction time decreased, and the anticipation skill with high speed increased after the WBV in women with normal lumbar lordosis (P = 0.01, P = 0.01, respectively). Additionally, the visual choice reaction time in women with lumbar hyperlordosis significantly decreased after WBV intervention. Although other variables in the two groups decreased after vibration, these changes were not statistically significant.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated that WBV had positive immediate effects on the reaction time in both groups, however, it had negative effects on anticipatory skill with high speed in women with normal lumbar lordosis; these negative effects appeared to be due to mental fatigue in the participants. This finding indicated WBV had the potential to enhance neuro-cognition. Therefore, further evaluations with different study settings and populations should be conducted.

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

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

Modulation of Cortical Activity by High-Frequency Whole-Body Vibration Exercise: An fNIRS Study

CONTEXT

Whole-body vibration (WBV) has shown many positive effects on the human body in rehabilitation and clinical settings in which vibration has been used to elicit muscle contractions in spastic and paretic muscles.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate whether WBV exercise (WBVe) differently modulates the cortical activity associated with motor and prefrontal function based on its frequency.

METHODS

A total of 18 healthy male adults (mean age: 25.3 [2.4] y) participated in this study and performed WBVe (Galileo Advanced plus; Novotec Medical, Pforzheim, Germany) under 3 different vibration frequency conditions (4-mm amplitude with 10-, 20-, and 27-Hz frequencies) and a control condition (0-mm amplitude with 0-Hz frequency). Each condition consisted of 2 alternating tasks (squatting and standing) every 30 seconds for 5 repetitions. All subjects performed the 4 conditions in a randomized order.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Cortical activation during WBVe was measured by relative changes in oxygenated hemoglobin concentration over the primary motor cortex, premotor cortex, supplementary motor area, and prefrontal and somatosensory cortices using functional near-infrared spectroscopy.

RESULTS

Oxygenated hemoglobin concentration was higher during the 27-Hz vibration condition than the control and 10-Hz vibration conditions. Specifically, these changes were pronounced in the bilateral primary motor cortex (P < .05) and right prefrontal cortex (P < .05). In contrast, no significant changes in oxygenated hemoglobin concentration were observed in any of the cortical areas during the 10-Hz vibration condition compared with the control condition.

CONCLUSION

This study provides evidence that the motor network and prefrontal cortical areas of healthy adult males can be activated by 27-Hz WBVe. However, WBVe at lower frequencies did not induce significant changes in cortical activation.

Fatiguing effects of indirect vibration stimulation in upper limb muscles: pre, post and during isometric contractions superimposed on upper limb vibration

Whole-body vibration and upper limb vibration (ULV) continue to gain popularity as exercise intervention for rehabilitation and sports applications. However, the fatiguing effects of indirect vibration stimulation are not yet fully understood. We investigated the effects of ULV stimulation superimposed on fatiguing isometric contractions using a purpose developed upper limb stimulation device. Thirteen healthy volunteers were exposed to both ULV superimposed to fatiguing isometric contractions (V) and isometric contractions alone Control (C). Both Vibration (V) and Control (C) exercises were performed at 80% of the maximum voluntary contractions. The stimulation used was 30 Hz frequency of 0.4 mm amplitude. Surface-electromyographic (EMG) activity of the Biceps Brachii, Triceps Brachii and Flexor Carpi Radialis were measured. EMG amplitude (EMGrms) and mean frequency (MEF) were computed to quantify muscle activity and fatigue levels. All muscles displayed significantly higher reduction in MEFs and a corresponding significant increase in EMGrms with the V than the Control, during fatiguing contractions (p < 0.05). Post vibration, all muscles showed higher levels of MEFs after recovery compared to the control. Our results show that near-maximal isometric fatiguing contractions superimposed on vibration stimulation lead to a higher rate of fatigue development compared to the isometric contraction alone in the upper limb muscles. Results also show higher manifestation of mechanical fatigue post treatment with vibration compared to the control. Vibration superimposed on isometric contraction not only seems to alter the neuromuscular function during fatiguing efforts by inducing higher neuromuscular load but also post vibration treatment.

Input and Soft-Tissue Vibration Characteristics during Sport-Specific Tasks

PURPOSE

To assess the influence of sport-specific tasks on the characteristics of input and soft-tissue vibrations.

METHODS

Triaxial accelerometers were used to quantify the input (heel cup of the shoe) and soft-tissue vibrations of the gastrocnemius medialis and vastus lateralis muscles during seven sport-specific tasks performed by 10 healthy volunteers. A wavelet analysis was used to analyze the acceleration signals in the time-frequency domain. The energy and frequency of the input and soft-tissue vibrations, as well as the transmission of energy from the input to the muscles and the damping properties of soft tissues, were computed.

RESULTS

Different inputs, energy transmissions, and damping properties were found between the various movements. Landings and side cuts induced the greatest input frequency and energy, as well as the greatest soft-tissue vibration energy. These tasks produced up to three times greater energy than in-line running. Positive energy transmission was found for frequencies under 50 Hz and for frequencies up to 90 Hz for some movements, indicating a possible change in the natural frequency of vibration within muscle. Only small differences in damping properties were found, which may indicate that the attenuation of the vibration was not the priority during these tasks.

CONCLUSIONS

Athletes are subject to greater energy impacts and vibrations during some sport-specific tasks compared with running. It may be useful to decrease such input/vibration energy via the usage of footwear or compression tools to limit their potential deleterious effects on the musculoskeletal system. It is, therefore, recommended to quantify and control the number of impacts induced by the different sport-specific tasks.

Add-on interventions during pulmonary rehabilitation

Both pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are generic terms and it increasingly becomes clear that rehabilitation programmes need to be tailored to the complexity and circumstances of the individual patient. Indeed, PR is described as a comprehensive, individualized intervention based on thorough assessment of identifiable treatable traits. The current review summarizes ongoing developments regarding additional interventions and tools to facilitate PR and improve outcomes in patients with a chronic respiratory disease.

Effects of Whole-Body Vibration on Upper Extremity Function and Grip Strength in Patients with Subacute Stroke: A Randomised Single-Blind Controlled Trial

Background

Whole-body vibration has been used to improve motor function in chronic stroke patients, but its effect on patients with subacute strokes remains unclear.

Objectives

We explored the effect of whole-body vibration on patients with subacute strokes.

Methods

Participants were randomly allocated to a whole-body vibration (WBV) group (n = 30) or an upper- and lower-cycle (ULC) group (n = 30). Both groups received occupational therapy after these interventions. All participants received treatment for 30 min/day, 5 days/week, for 4 weeks. Both groups received the same conventional physical therapy.

Results

The manual function test (MFT) score and grip strength improved after both WBV (p = 0.001 and p = 0.001, respectively) and ULC (p = 0.002 and p = 0.001, respectively), but the improvement was more pronounced (MFT p = 0.016; GS p = 0.023) after WBV.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the use of WBV and ULC was effective as remedial treatments for improving upper extremity motor function and increasing grip strength for patients with subacute strokes. The improvement was more pronounced for the WBV treatment. This trial is registered with KCT0003246.

Effect of 12-Week Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Lumbopelvic Proprioception and Pain Control in Young Adults with Nonspecific Low Back Pain

BACKGROUND Nonspecific low back pain (NSLBP) accounts for a large proportion of low back pain cases. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of the whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise on lumbar proprioception in NSLBP patients. It was hypothesized that WBV exercise enhances lumbar proprioception. MATERIAL AND METHODS Forty-two patients with NSLBP performed an exercise program 3 times a week for a total of 12 weeks of WBV. The lumbar proprioception was measured by joint position sense. Outcomes were lumbar angle deviation and visual analogue scale (VAS) score. RESULTS After the 12-week WBV exercise, lumbar flexion angle deviation was reduced from 3.65±2.26° to 1.90±1.07° (P=0.0001), and extension angle deviation was reduced from 3.06±1.85° to 1.61±0.75° (P=0.0001), significantly lower than baseline. After participating in the 12-week WBV exercise, a significant pain reduction was observed (P=0.0001). Men in the whole group (n=32) indicated significantly lower angle deviations in flexion and extension, whereas women (n=10) indicated significantly lower flexion angle deviation (P=0.037), and no significant difference was found in extension angle deviation (P=0.052). However, by subdividing the entire group (n=42) into poor and good proprioceptive groups, WBV exercise presented significant enhancement of lumbar proprioceptive ability in the poor flexion proprioception subgroup, poor extension proprioception subgroup, and good extension proprioception subgroup (each P=0.0001), but not in the subgroup with good flexion proprioceptive ability (P=0.165). CONCLUSIONS Lumbar flexion and extension proprioception as measured by joint position sense was significantly enhanced and pain was significantly reduced after 12-week WBV exercise in NSLBP patients. However, the patients with good flexion proprioceptive ability had limited proprioceptive enhancement.

Effects of different vibration frequencies, amplitudes and contraction levels on lower limb muscles during graded isometric contractions superimposed on whole body vibration stimulation

BACKGROUND

Indirect vibration stimulation, i.e., whole body vibration or upper limb vibration, has been investigated increasingly as an exercise intervention for rehabilitation applications. However, there is a lack of evidence regarding the effects of graded isometric contractions superimposed on whole body vibration stimulation. Hence, the objective of this study was to quantify and analyse the effects of variations in the vibration parameters and contraction levels on the neuromuscular responses to isometric exercise superimposed on whole body vibration stimulation.

METHODS

In this study, we assessed the 'neuromuscular effects' of graded isometric contractions, of 20%, 40%, 60%, 80% and 100% of maximum voluntary contraction, superimposed on whole body vibration stimulation (V) and control (C), i.e., no-vibration in 12 healthy volunteers. Vibration stimuli tested were 30 Hz and 50 Hz frequencies and 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm amplitude. Surface electromyographic activity of the vastus lateralis, vastus medialis and biceps femoris were measured during V and C conditions with electromyographic root mean square and electromyographic mean frequency values used to quantify muscle activity and their fatigue levels, respectively.

RESULTS

Both the prime mover (vastus lateralis) and the antagonist (biceps femoris) displayed significantly higher (P < 0.05) electromyographic activity with the V than the C condition with varying percentage increases in EMG root-mean-square (EMGrms) values ranging from 20% to 200%. For both the vastus lateralis and biceps femoris, the increase in mean EMGrms values depended on the frequency, amplitude and muscle contraction level with 50 Hz-0.5 mm stimulation inducing the largest neuromuscular activity.

CONCLUSIONS

These results show that the isometric contraction superimposed on vibration stimulation leads to higher neuromuscular activity compared to isometric contraction alone in the lower limbs. The combination of the vibration frequency with the amplitude and the muscle tension together grades the final neuromuscular output.

Does vibration benefit delayed-onset muscle soreness?: a meta-analysis and systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Delayed-onset muscle soreness (DOMS) is a symptom of exercise-induced muscle injury that is commonly encountered in athletes and fitness enthusiasts. Vibration is being increasingly used to prevent or treat DOMS. We therefore carried out a meta-analysis to evaluate the effectiveness of vibration in patients with DOMS.

METHOD

We searched nine databases for randomized controlled trials of vibration in DOMS, from the earliest date available to 30 May 2018. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and creatine kinase (CK) levels were set as outcome measures.

RESULTS

The review included 10 identified studies with 258 participants. The meta-analysis indicated that vibration significantly improved the VAS at 24, 48, and 72 hours after exercise, and significantly improved CK levels at 24 and 48 hours, but not at 72 hours.

CONCLUSION

Vibration is a beneficial and useful form of physiotherapy for alleviating DOMS. However, further studies are needed to clarify the role and mechanism of vibration in DOMS.

Acute Effects and Perceptions of Deep Oscillation Therapy for Improving Hamstring Flexibility

Context:Hamstring inflexibility is typically treated using therapeutic massage, stretching, and soft tissue mobilization. An alternative intervention is deep oscillation therapy (DOT). Currently, there is a lack of evidence to support DOT’s effectiveness to improve flexibility.Objective:To explore the effectiveness of DOT to improve hamstring flexibility.Design:Randomized single-cohort design.Setting:Research laboratory.Participants:Twenty-nine healthy, physically active individuals (self-reported activity of a minimum 200 min/wk).Interventions:All participants received a single session of DOT with randomization of the participant’s leg for the intervention. The DOT intervention parameters included a 1∶1 mode and 70% to 80% dosage at various frequencies for 28 minutes. Hamstring flexibility was assessed using passive straight leg raise for hip flexion using a digital inclinometer. Patient-reported outcomes were evaluated using the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score and the Global Rating of Change (GRoC).Main Outcome Measure:The independent variable was time (pre and post). The dependent variables included passive straight leg raise, the GRoC, and the participant’s perceptions of the intervention. Statistical analyses included a dependentttest and a Pearson correlation.Results:Participants reported no issues with sport, activities of daily living, or quality of life prior to beginning the intervention study on the Copenhagen Hip and Groin Outcome Score. Passive straight leg raise significantly improved post-DOT (95% confidence interval, 4.48°–7.85°,P < .001) with a mean difference of 6.17 ± 4.42° (pre-DOT = 75.43 ± 21.82° and post-DOT = 81.60 ± 23.17°). A significant moderate positive correlation was identified (r = .439,P = .02) among all participants between the GRoC and the mean change score of hamstring flexibility. Participants believed that the intervention improved their hamstring flexibility (5.41 ± 1.02 points) and was relaxing (6.21 ± 0.86).Conclusions:DOT is an effective intervention to increase hamstring flexibility.

Effect of rocker shoes and running speed on lower limb mechanics and soft tissue vibrations

Previous studies have shown a possible effect of running speed and the sole material of footwear on lower-limb mechanics and soft tissue vibrations, while little information has been offered concerning the influence of the shape of the footwear's sole. The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of running speed and rocker shoes on muscular activity, ground reaction force, and soft tissue vibrations. Twenty participants performed heel-toe running with two shoes, differentiated only by their sole shape (i.e. rocker and non-rocker), at four running speeds. Ground reaction force and electromyograms of the gastrocnemius medialis and vastus lateralis were measured, and soft tissue accelerations of the same muscles were recorded with tri-axial accelerometers. A continuous wavelet transform was applied to the accelerometer's signals to analyse them in the time-frequency domain. The rocker of the shoes did not change the muscular activations, ground reaction force, nor power of soft tissue vibrations. In opposite, increased running speed led to an augmentation of all of the measured parameters. Interestingly, running speed augmentation led to a greater increase in high frequencies component of soft tissue vibrations (25-50 Hz, 242%) than lower ones (8-25 Hz, 111%). Consequently, we indicated a 10% increase in the relative part of the high frequencies of the total power. In conclusion, although rocker shoes have shown an effect on lower-limb kinetics in some studies, no influence on soft tissue vibration is denoted. By contrast, soft tissue vibrations may be modulated by changing running speed.

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.

Current evidence does not support whole body vibration in clinical practice in children and adolescents with disabilities: a systematic review of randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Whole body vibration has been used alone or combined with other interventions in rehabilitation of children and adolescents with disabilities; however, there is limited evidence to support this approach.

OBJECTIVES

To review the strength, quality, and conclusiveness of evidence supporting the use of whole body vibration in children and adolescents with disabilities.

METHODS

Electronic database search included Medline, AMED, Embase, Cochrane, SportDiscus, CINAHL and PEDro from the inception to June 2018. Studies investigating the effects of whole body vibration, alone or combined with other interventions, compared to minimal intervention or other interventions were included. The outcomes measured were: body structure and function (lean body mass, bone mineral density, knee muscle strength and overall stability) and activity and participation (gait speed, walking distance, gross motor function, self-care and mobility).

RESULTS

Fifteen randomized trials involving 403 participants were included. Methodological quality of eligible trials was moderate (mean of 5.5 points on the 10-point PEDro scale). Overall, whole body vibration was no better than minimal intervention. In all comparisons where additional effect of whole body vibration was better than other interventions, the effect size ranged from low to high in the trials, but ranged from very-low to low quality at short and medium-term follow-up. Sensitivity analysis for health condition and low-quality studies showed impact on trunk bone mineral density of additional effect of whole body vibration at medium-term compared to other interventions.

CONCLUSION

The low to very-low quality of evidence suggests caution in recommending the use of this approach. New studies could change the findings of this review. PROSPERO registration: CRD42017060704.