Muscle Vibration as a Countermeasure Against Hypoactivity-induced

Effects of Focal Muscle Vibration as a Countermeasure Against Hypoactivity-induced Neuromuscular Deconditioning

Muscle deconditioning, characterized by a loss of muscle mass and strength, is a frequent consequence of prolonged lower limb unloading. Beyond muscle mass loss, reduced neural drive contributes significantly to strength decline, highlighting the need for interventions targeting neuromuscular function during immobilization. Focal muscle vibration (FMV) has shown promise in modulating neuromuscular excitability by activating muscle spindle afferents and inducing cortical adaptations. Chronic use of FMV has been associated with significant strength gains and improved neural command. This makes FMV an effective rehabilitation tool. Its simplicity and non-invasiveness further make it a practical countermeasure.

This study hypothesizes that a 10-day FMV protocol can induce neural adaptations to limit strength loss during unilateral lower limb suspension, offering a novel strategy against neuromuscular function decline.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women.
• Aged 18 to 45 years.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18,5 and 24,9 kg/m².
• Engaging in at least 1.5 hours per week of physical activity (e.g., brisk walking, running, swimming, cycling).
• Provided informed consent after receiving detailed information about the study.
• Affiliated with or beneficiaries of a social security system

Exclusion Criteria:

• Chronic cardiovascular, neuromuscular, bone, metabolic, and/or inflammatory disorders.
• Personal history and/or risk factors for thrombosis.
• Use of antidepressant medications.
• Use of neuroactive substances likely to alter corticospinal excitability (e.g., hypnotics, antiepileptics, psychotropics, muscle relaxants) during the study.
• Recent bone or ligament trauma within the past 12 months.
• Inability to perform the physical efforts required for the study.
• Recent participation in a sporting competition or intense, unusual physical activity within the past month.
• Corticosteroid treatment within the past 3 months.
• Any skin lesions at the planned vibrator application site.
• Simultaneous participation in another interventional medical study.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• Individuals unable to understand the purpose and conditions of the study or unable to provide informed consent.
• Individuals deprived of liberty or under guardianship