Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Training on Physical Fitness and Postural Control in Working-Age Patients on Haemodialysis.

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the effect of whole-body vibration training on working-age people on haemodialysis.DesignConsecutive case series study.SubjectsSeventeen working-age participants on maintenance haemodialysis were enrolled.MethodsA 12-week whole-body vibration training programme, including different postures, was designed. The study evaluated and compared physical fitness, including a list of tests such as the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, hand grip test, 2-min step test, and 8-foot up-and-go test; modified Berg balance scale; static and dynamic balance function; and quality of life, using a quality of life questionnaire before and after the training.ResultsAll physical fitness parameters, except grip strength on the left side, improved after whole-body vibration training. For balance, the modified Berg balance scale demonstrated enhanced scores for equilibrium, with eyes closed on a stable surface and eyes open on an unstable surface, and movement velocity under the fast condition along the left and right directions (p=0.011). No significant improvements in quality of life were found.ConclusionWhole-body vibration exercise training enhanced physical fitness and static and dynamic balance control in working-age participants on haemodialysis.LAY ABSTRACTThis study designed a series of exercises in different postures on a whole-body vibration machine for individuals on maintenance haemodialysis and evaluated the changes in their physical fitness, postural control and quality of life before and after a 12-week programme. Seventeen working-age participants on maintenance haemodialysis were enrolled and completed the whole-body vibration training programme. There were no significant changes in the scores on the quality of life questionnaire for multifactorial aspects. However, the physical fitness parameters, including a list of tests, such as the 5-repetition sit-to-stand test, hand grip test of right side, 2-min step test and 8-foot up-and-go test, improved after the whole-body vibration training. Their postural control also demonstrated improvements in the modified Berg balance scale, equilibrium scores with eyes closed on a stable surface and eyes open on an unstable surface, and movement velocity under the fast condition along the left and right directions.