Effect of whole-body vibration frequency on objective physical function outcomes in healthy young adults: Randomized clinical trial

Abstract

IntroductionWhole-body vibration (WBV) is used to improve muscle function but is important to know if doses can affect the objective function outcomes. ObjectiveTo compare the effect of two frequencies of WBV on objective physical function outcomes in healthy young adults. MethodsForty-two volunteers were randomized into three groups: sham group (SG), and WBV groups with 30 (F30) and 45 Hz (F45). A 6-week WBV intervention protocol was applied by a vibrating platform twice a week, with the platform turn-off for SG and with two frequencies according to group, 30 or 45 Hz. The objective physical functions outcomes assessed were the proprioceptive accuracy, measured by proprioceptive tests, and quasi-static and dynamic balances, measured by Sensory Organization Test (SOT) and Y Balance Test, respectively. The outcomes were assessed before and after the WBV intervention. We used in the results comparisons, by GzLM test, the deltas percentage. ResultsAfter the intervention, no statistical differences were observed in percentage deltas for any outcomes (proprioceptive accuracy, quasi-static and dynamic balances). ConclusionObjective physical function outcomes, after the 6-week WBV protocol, did not present statistically significant results in any of the intervention groups (F30 or F45) and SG.