Vibration therapy

Dev Med Child Neurol. 2009 Oct:51 Suppl 4:166-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1469-8749.2009.03418.x.

Abstract

Whole-body vibration training is a method for muscle strengthening that is increasingly used in a variety of clinical situations. Key descriptors of vibration devices include the frequency, the amplitude, and the direction of the vibration movement. In a typical vibration session, the user stands on the device in a static position or performs dynamic movements. Most authors hypothesize that vibrations stimulate muscle spindles and alpha-motoneurons, which initiate a muscle contraction. An immediate effect of a non-exhausting vibration session is an increase in muscle power. Most studies of the longer term use of vibration treatment in various disorders have pursued three therapeutic aims: increasing muscle strength, improving balance, and increasing bone mass. In a small pilot trial in children we noted improvements in standing function, lumbar spine bone mineral density, tibial bone mass, and calf muscle cross-sectional area.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bone and Bones / physiopathology
  • Cerebral Palsy / physiopathology
  • Cerebral Palsy / therapy
  • Child
  • Electronics, Medical / instrumentation
  • Humans
  • Muscle Strength / physiology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / pathology
  • Muscle, Skeletal / physiopathology
  • Musculoskeletal Manipulations / methods
  • Nervous System Diseases / physiopathology
  • Nervous System Diseases / therapy*
  • Postural Balance / physiology
  • Vibration / therapeutic use*
  • Young Adult