Effects of Whole Body Vibration in Elderly Patients Requiring Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study

Effects of Whole Body Vibration in Elderly Patients Requiring Rehabilitation: A Pilot Study

The aim of this study is to accumulate data about the influence of whole body vibration on the functional recovery of adult patients with various neuromuscular and musculoskeletal deficits requiring physical medicine and rehabilitation treatments.

We know that whole body vibration can cause remarkable increase in power in athletes, however, to what extent elderly and disabled individuals could benefit from it is currently unknown. Our primary goal is to investigate if treatment with whole body vibration in elderly persons and patients with various neuromuscular and musculoskeletal deficits would result in more rapid return of their function and presumably at a higher level than comparable group of patients undergoing standard physical therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A history of one of the following conditions: CVA, Parkinson's disease, incomplete spinal cord injury, frail elderly, urinary incontinence, COPD, fibromyalgia
• Patients with neuromusculoskeletal problems affecting strength, balance, and coordination
• Must have all appendages (arms and legs) intact, not an amputee

Exclusion Criteria:

• Pregnancy
• Unable o participate in continuing outpatient therapy services at a location where the whole body vibration equipment is available
• Untreated deep venous thrombosis
• Other condition that will lead to poor treatment adherence
• History of join replacement of lower limbs, shoulders, or devices in the spine