Sitjà Rabert et al. Whole-body vibration training for patients with neurodegenerative disease. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2012 Feb 15;2:CD009097.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of WBV to improve functional performance according to basic activities of daily living (ADL) in neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we wanted to assess the possible effect on signs and symptoms of the disease, body balance, gait, muscle performance, quality of life and adverse events.
MAIN RESULTS: We included 4 trials on MS. None of the studies reported data on the primary outcome (functional performance). In MS there was no evidence of a short-term or long-term effect of WBV on body balance, gait, muscle performance or quality of life.Adverse events were reported in few trials. In those trials that reported them, the intervention appeared to be safe.
AUTHORS’ CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence of the effect of WBV training on functional performance of MS’ers. Also, there is insufficient evidence regarding its beneficial effects on signs and symptoms of the disease, body balance, gait, muscle strength and quality of life compared to other active physical therapy or passive interventions. More studies assessing other functional tests and accurately assessing safety are needed before a definitive recommendation is established.
BACKGROUND: Whole-body vibration (WBV) may be a complementary training to standard physical rehabilitation programmes and appears to have potential benefits in the sensorimotor system performance of patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
OBJECTIVES: The aim of this review was to examine the efficacy of WBV to improve functional performance according to basic activities of daily living (ADL) in neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, we wanted to assess the possible effect on signs and symptoms of the disease, body balance, gait, muscle performance, quality of life and adverse events.
MAIN RESULTS: We included 4 trials on MS. None of the studies reported data on the primary outcome (functional performance). In MS there was no evidence of a short-term or long-term effect of WBV on body balance, gait, muscle performance or quality of life.Adverse events were reported in few trials. In those trials that reported them, the intervention appeared to be safe.
AUTHORS’ CONCLUSIONS: There is insufficient evidence of the effect of WBV training on functional performance of MS’ers. Also, there is insufficient evidence regarding its beneficial effects on signs and symptoms of the disease, body balance, gait, muscle strength and quality of life compared to other active physical therapy or passive interventions. More studies assessing other functional tests and accurately assessing safety are needed before a definitive recommendation is established.
“I hope those of you who are power-plate disciples are not disappointed by this systematic review. As the evidence is poor we can’t recommend this for routine clinical practice.”
To understand why the above studies give ambiguous results. Where as the promise of earlier tests were much more positive.You must read this…. http://www.vibration-training-advice.com/fake-specs-the-true-timeline-of-discoveryNote: The first positive tests done years ago were done on real machines with real specs. A number of academics are guilty of turning a blind eye to fake specs to gain grant money. Yes they sold out the science to keep their jobs for one more year. Knowing full well the repercussions.http://www.vibra-train.com/research.html Please note: I have been giving free training on real machines since 2004 , and will continue doing so to those with Muscle Wasting issues. I also do not sell machines.So this is not a marketing pitch for me.I am a scientist and am simply disgusted at some academics behavior.