Whole-body Vibration Exercise Research Articles

Effect of Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Pain, Disability, Balance, Proprioception, Functional Performance and Quality of Life in People with Non-Specific Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: Non-specific chronic low back pain (NSCLBP) presents significant treatment challenges due to its multifactorial nature. Whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) has emerged as a potential therapeutic modality, offering benefits across various domains, including pain reduction, improved balance, and enhanced quality of life (QoL). The aim of this present systematic review and meta-analysis is to evaluate the effects of WBVE on pain, disability, balance, proprioception, functional performance, and QoL in individuals with NSCLBP. Methods: We comprehensively searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and CENTRAL databases from October 2023 to January 2024, including RCTs with a PEDro score of ≥5 for high-quality evidence. Outcome measures included pain intensity, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) score, Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) score, balance, proprioception, functional performance (through a progressive iso-inertial lifting evaluation), and QoL (SF-36) in NSCLBP patients. The risk of bias was assessed using ROB-2, and the certainty of evidence for each outcome indicator was analyzed using GRADE. A meta-analysis was conducted using standardized mean differences (SMD) and mean differences (MD) for continuous outcomes. Results: Ten randomized controlled trials fulfilled the inclusion criteria for the systematic review, and nine were suitable for the meta-analysis. The qualitative synthesis revealed WBVE is effective in improving pain, disability, balance, proprioception, and functional performance and QoL. Further, the results of the quantitative review demonstrated WBVE significantly reduced pain [visual analogue scale: SMD = -0.81, 95% CI (-1.11, -0.50), I2 = 0%, p < 0.01], disability [ODI: MD = -3.78, 95% CI (-5.27, -2.29), I2 = 24%, p < 0.01]; RMDQ: MD = -1.43, 95% CI (-2.04, -0.82), I2 = 51%, p < 0.01], balance [SMD = -0.28, 95% CI (-0.52, -0.05), I2 = 0%, p = 0.02], and proprioception [SMD = -4.20, 95% CI (-7.50, -0.89), I2 = 99%, p = 0.01]. Conclusions: This review and meta-analysis indicate that WBVE significantly improves pain, disability, balance and proprioception in individuals with non-specific chronic low back pain. These findings suggest potential benefits of incorporating WBVE into the management strategies for NSCLBP.

Effects of Whole-Body Vibration Combined with Blood Flow Restriction and Systemic Hypoxia on Body Composition and Physical Performance in Overweight University Students

Study purpose. This study investigated the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) and hypoxic exposure (HYP) on body composition and physical performance in overweight university students. Materials and methods. Twenty-nine male university students with overweight were divided into 3 groups: 1) whole-body vibration (WBV), 2) whole-body vibration plus blood flow restriction (WBV+BFR, 60% of occlusion pressure) and 3) whole-body vibration plus hypoxic exposure (WBV+HYP, FiO₂ = 15.8%). Training included 10 sets of intermittent WBV exercise (30-35 Hz in frequency and high amplitude) 20 min/day and 3 days/week. Body composition along with physical performance was measured before (2-3 days prior) and after (2-3 days post) an 8-week training period. Results. The results of this study were as followed, after training, the maximum strength (1RM) in the leg press and leg curl were significantly increased in the WBV+HYP group (28.31%, p = 0.016 and 13.56%, p = 0.017) compared with the WBV group (17.68% and 2.88) respectively. Similarly, the WBV+HYP group showed a substantial increase in muscle endurance in the leg extension and leg curl (28.57%, p = 0.013 and 34.38% p = 0.049) when compared to the WBV group (5.33% and 13.20%) respectively. Conclusions. Whole-body vibration combined with blood flow restriction and hypoxic exposure were effective in improving body composition and physical fitness. Performing the procedure can also be adjusted according to convenience and suitability for each individual. It is a guideline for preventing, treating, and promoting health among overweight adolescents.

Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on physical function in patients with chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundThe current state of knowledge regarding the efficacy of whole-body vibration (WBV) training for individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is limited. To address this gap, the present study seeks to undertake a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials to evaluate the impact of WBV on physical function and quality of life outcomes in CKD patients.MethodsA systematic search was performed on the PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus databases from inception to March 2023 and updated in June 2023. The inclusion criteria comprised randomized controlled studies, quasi-experimental studies, and single-arm trials that evaluated the impact of WBV on physical function, encompassing cardiopulmonary fitness, muscle strength, mobility, and balance, in CKD patients. Adverse events that were included in the study reports were recorded. The pooled evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) method.ResultsNine studies were identified, of which seven were included in the meta-analysis. The results of the meta-analysis indicated a statistically significant improvement in upper (mean difference: 3.45 kg; 95% confidence interval 1.61 to 5.29) and lower (standardized mean difference: 0.34, 95% confidence interval 0.08 to 0.59) extremity muscle strength in patients with CKD who underwent WBV training compared to baseline (low-level evidence). Furthermore, WBV training favored improved cardiorespiratory fitness, mobility, and balance function, but no statistical difference was observed. The impact of WBV training on quality of life in patients with CKD requires further validation. Notably, only one adverse event (nausea) was reported in the included studies.ConclusionsWBV has demonstrated efficacy and feasibility in enhancing muscle strength among patients with CKD. However, further investigation is warranted to determine its potential for improving cardiorespiratory adaptations, mobility, balance function, and quality of life. Additionally, future research should prioritize comprehensive reporting of WBV protocols to establish an optimal training regimen for the CKD population.

Effect of whole-body vibration stimulation on plasma soluble TNF receptors in elderly with sarcopenia: a randomized controlled trial.

Sarcopenia is a pathology resulting from a progressive and severe loss of muscle mass, strength, and function in the course of aging, which has deleterious consequences on quality of life. Among the most widespread studies on the issue are those focused on the effect of different types of physical exercise on patients with sarcopenia. This randomized controlled study aimed to compare the effects of a whole-body vibration exercise (WBV) session on the inflammatory parameters of non-sarcopenic (NSG, n=22) and sarcopenic elderly (SG, n=22). NSG and SG participants were randomly divided into two protocols: intervention (squat with WBV) and control (squat without WBV). After a one-week washout period, participants switched protocols, so that everyone performed both protocols. Body composition was assessed by dual-energy radiological absorptiometry (DXA) and function through the six-minute walk test (6MWD) and Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB). Plasma soluble tumor necrosis factor receptors (sTNFR) were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and measured before and immediately after each protocol. After exercise with WBV, there was an increase in sTNFR2 levels in the NSG (P<0.01; d=-0.69 (-1.30; -0.08) and SG (P<0.01, d=-0.95 (-1.57; -0.32) groups. In conclusion, an acute session of WBV influenced sTNFr2 levels, with sarcopenic individuals showing a greater effect. This suggested that WBV had a more pronounced impact on sTNFr2 in those with loss of muscle strength and/or physical performance. Additionally, WBV is gaining recognition as an efficient strategy for those with persistent health issues.

Neuromuscular Response during Different Side-Cutting Maneuvers and Its Influence on the Risk of Knee Injuries.

The objective of this study was to investigate the impact of a customized exercise program on electromyographic (EMG) variables during side-cutting maneuvers. Fifty-seven physically active volunteers were recruited and randomized into two groups: a control group (CG) and an experimental group (EG). The CG maintained their regular physical activity, while the EG followed an individualized, integrated exercise regimen that included strength, neuromuscular, proprioceptive, eccentric training, and whole-body vibration (WBV) exercises, lasting for 12 weeks. EMG-Root Means Square (RMS) values for the quadriceps (Q) and hamstrings (H) were measured immediately following initial foot contact at 50, 100, 150, and 200 milliseconds. Changes in EMG activity were evaluated before and after a twelve-week intervention, and the effect size (ES, 90% confidence limit [90%CL]) was calculated. The results showed that the EG participants exhibited enhanced co-contraction as measured by the hamstring/quadriceps ratio (H/Q ratio) during both open and cross-cutting side maneuvers after the twelve-week intervention. Furthermore, the customized, integrated exercise program that combined strength, neuromuscular, proprioceptive, eccentric training, and WBV exercises were could potentially serve as a beneficial neuromuscular and biomechanical strategy for addressing knee injury risk in non-professional, physically active populations at high risk for such injuries.

Assessment of cardiovascular risk, heart rate variability, and functionality in the late postoperative period of bariatric surgery submitted to whole-body vibration exercise: A case report

Currently, a high prevalence of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases, such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, and poor diet, has been observed among young people. Obesity is a public health problem that directly impacts the economy. In this case study, the authors are using data from a survey of a late postoperative bariatric surgery patient. Male patient, 23 years old, obese since childhood, 186 kg [body mass index (BMI) 61], sedentary, without other comorbidities. He denies smoking. On 10/30/2019, he underwent Y gastroplasty (Gastric Bypass) with a reduction of approximately 90% of the stomach. On 09/13/2021, he started an intervention protocol through whole-body vibration (WBV). Cardiovascular risk, heart rate variability, functionality, and quality of life were evaluated in the acute phase and in the chronic phase. The training was conducted through 10 interventions with exercises on the vibrating platform. Functionality was assessed through the tests: “Timed up and Go,” Sit/Stand, 6-minute Walk Test, and handgrip strength. A 7.1% gain in functional capacity was observed, with a 37.5% reduction in perceived exertion. In addition, there was a 39% gain in handgrip strength and a reduction in the execution time in the functional capacity tests. Heart rate variability after interventions showed that WBV can reduce cardiovascular risk. In conclusion, the exercise program allowed the reduction of body weight and body mass index and impacted the alteration of body composition and functionality, resulting in a reduction in cardiovascular risk.

Effects of a Single Session of Systemic Vibratory Therapy on Flexibility, Perception of Exertion and Handgrip Strength in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Individuals: A Quasi-Experimental Clinical Trial.

Whole-body vibration exercises (WBVE), that are generated in systemic vibratory therapy (SVT), may benefit individuals with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study evaluated acute effects of SVT on the flexibility, on the perception of exertion to perform the anterior trunk flexion (ATF), and on the handgrip strength (HG). Thirty-eight individuals, separated into two groups, performed a single session of SVT (five bouts, 25 Hz, 2.5 of amplitude) on a side-alternating vibrating platform (SAVP), in two postures: sitting (Sitting group-SitG, n = 21) or standing (Stand group-StandG, n = 17). In both positions, the feet were on the base of the SAVP. The HG and the AFT were performed before and after the session, and the perception of effort (RPE) was measured during the ATF. The ATF in the SitG (p ≤ 0.05) and in the StandG (p ≤ 0.05) was significantly improved, but in the comparison between both groups, no significant reduction was found (p = 0.14). The RPE was not influenced by the session. A significant increase of the HG in StandG post session (33.49 ± 10.30 kgf) p = 0.03 was found, but not in the SitG (p = 0.12) or between the two groups (p = 0.55). SVT, in a single acute session, would be capable of promoting some functional benefits for the COPD individuals without altering the perception of exertion to perform the ATF. 49219115.3.0000.5259, RBR-72dqtm.

Effects of whole-body vibration exercise on sleep disorders, body composition and clinical parameters in down syndrome children: A study protocol for a randomized cross-over trial.

Down-syndrome (DS) the most common genetic disorder worldwide. Whole-body-vibration-exercise (WBVE) has been recommended for individuals with DS. To verify the efficacy of WBVE on sleep disorders, body-composition (BC) and clinical parameters of children with DS. It is a randomized cross-over-trial. Children with DS, 5-12years, both-genders will be selected. The sleep disorders will be evaluated by the "Infant sleep questionnaire Reimão and Lefevre" and by the "Sleep disturbance scale in children". The BC will be measure by bioimpedance and the skin temperature using infrared-thermography. WBVE will be performed seating in an ancillary-chair or sitting on the base of the vibrating platform, with 2.5mm, 5Hz. Each session (5 series, 30-seconds on vibration, 1-minute of rest). It is expected improvement responses on sleep, BC and some clinical parameters. It is expected that this WBVE protocol will bring important clinical contributions for children with DS.

Whole-body vibration versus supervised aerobic exercise on hormonal parameters and inflammatory status in women with premenstrual syndrome: A randomized controlled trial.

To compare the effects of whole-body vibration (WBV) and aerobic exercise on the hormonal profile and inflammatory status in women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). A prospective, randomized, pre-post-test, single-blind, controlled trial was conducted in 105 women diagnosed with PMS. They were randomized into three equal groups. All women received magnesium and vitamin B complex supplementation once daily. WBV training was added three times per week to the WBV group. The aerobic exercise group added aerobic exercise three times per week, while the control group received no additional intervention. The Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire (PMSQ) was used to assess PMS symptoms. Blood analysis was performed to measure hormone assays (estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and cortisol) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein at the start and after the end of the treatment program. There was no statistically significant difference between WBV and aerobic exercise according to PMSQ and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (P= 0.99 and P= 0.98, respectively), but there was a statistically significant difference between both groups in cortisol, progesterone, prolactin, and estradiol (P= 0.001), with more favor given to the WBV group. WBV and aerobic exercise have positive effects on women with PMS, with more favor given to WBV.

Whole-Body Vibration Exercise Improves the Functionality in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review.

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's aging process. Menopause leads to the decrease of the estrogen levels, and in consequence the functionality worsening. Physical exercise can improve the functionality of postmenopausal woman. This review aimed to assess the effect of whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) on the functionality of postmenopausal women. PRISMA guideline were used. Only English language were considered. Searches were conducted using relevant keywords for papers prior to Sep 16th, 2021, in Embase, Pubmed, The Cochrane Library, PED-ro, SPORTDiscus, Scopus, Web of Science and CINAHL databases. Eight articles were selected to be in this systematic review. The mean score of methodological quality was moderate, the risk of bias was low for two studies, high for four studies, and unclear for two studies. The level of evidence of the studies was II. Improvements on muscle strength, jump, balance and maximum trunk flexion strength in the post menopause woman were reported. This systematic review demonstrated the functionality increase in postmenopausal women through WBVE. WBVE has been recommended as a non-pharmacological option relevant to postmenopausal management, helping to control the decline in bone density and symptoms related to osteoporosis and sarcopenia. However, further studies are needed to reinforce these findings.

Therapeutic Approach of Whole-Body Vibration Exercise on Wound Healing in Animal Models: A Systematic Review

Human skin wounds pose a gathering threat to the public health, carrying an immense epidemiologic and financial burden. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological (NP) treatments have been proposed to the management of wound healing. Physical exercise is a strong NP intervention considered for patients in wound healing. Particularly, a type of exercise intervention known as whole-body vibration (WBV) exercise has gained increasing interest. WBV exercise is generated due to the transmission of mechanical vibrations, produced by a vibrating platform, to the body. The aim of this review was to summarize studies in experimental animal models using WBV exercise in wound healing. Searches were performed in EMBASE, PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science including publications on 21 November 2022 using the string "whole body vibration" AND "wound healing" (animal or mice or mouse or rat or rodent). The SYRCLE tool was used to assess the risk of bias (RoB). From 48 studies, five studies met the inclusion criteria. RoB indicated that none of the studies fulfilled all methodological analyzed criteria, resulting in possible biases. The studies were homogeneous, and results suggest beneficial effects of WBV exercise in wound healing, mainly related to enhancing angiogenesis, granulation tissue formation, reducing the blood glucose level and enhancing blood microcirculation, by increasing myofiber growth and rapid re-epithelialization. In conclusion, the various biological effects of the response to the WBV exercise indicate the relevance of this intervention in wound healing in animals. Moreover, considering the translation approach, it is possible to speculate that the beneficial effects of this non-pharmacological therapy might justify clinical trials for wound healing also in humans, after criterion evaluation.

Evidence of Use of Whole-Body Vibration in Individuals with Metabolic Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

(1) Background: Metabolic syndrome (MSy) is defined by a constellation of interconnected physiological, biochemical, clinical, and metabolic factors that directly increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. This systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted to assess the effects of whole-body vibration exercise (WBVE) in metabolic syndrome (MSy) individuals. (2) Methods: An electronic search in Pubmed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PEDro, and CINAHL databases in December 2022 was performed. Data regarding the included studies were extracted. The level of evidence, the methodological quality, and the risk of bias of each selected publication were individually evaluated. (3) Results: Eight studies were included in the systematic review and four studies in the meta-analysis, with a mean methodological quality score on the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro scale) of 5.6, considered "fair" quality. The qualitative results suggested positive effects of the systemic vibration therapy in relevant outcomes, such as quality of life, functionality, pain level, trunk flexibility, cardiovascular responses (blood pressure and heart rate), neuromuscular activation, range of motion of the knees, rating of perceived exertion, and body composition. The quantitative results, with weighted mean differences, standard mean differences, and 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated. Conclusions: WBVE may be an alternative capable of interfering with physical-mainly for flexibility with weighted mean differences (1.70; 95% CI 0.15, 3.25; n = 39)-functional, psychosocial, neuromuscular, emotional parameters, and consequently contribute to improvements in metabolic health and reduce the cardiovascular risk factor in MSy individuals. Nevertheless, further additional studies are required to understand the long-term effects of WBVE on MSy and its complications in a better way. Protocol study registration was as follows: PROSPERO (CRD 42020187319).

Physical Exercise Effects on Cardiovascular Autonomic Modulation in Postmenopausal Women-A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

The cardioprotective effect of physical exercise has been demonstrated in several studies. However, no systematic or updated analysis has described the effects of physical exercise on cardiovascular autonomic modulation in postmenopausal women. to describe the effects of physical exercise on cardiovascular autonomic modulation in postmenopausal women. The Scopus, PubMed, and Embase databases were searched for randomized clinical trials published between January 2011 and December 2021, and regarding the effects of physical exercise on cardiovascular autonomic modulation in postmenopausal women. Two independent authors processed the citations. The methodological quality was evaluated using the PEDRo scale. Of the 91 studies identified, only 8 met the inclusion criteria, of which 7 had fair or poor methodological quality. The analyzed studies investigated the effects of functional training, whole-body vibration, muscular resistance, stretching, and aerobic exercises performed at home or at the gym. The majority of these exercise modalities showed improvements in heart-rate variability (HRV) indices and in the low-frequency band of blood pressure variability. The meta-analysis shows that exercise increased the standard deviation of instantaneous beat-to-beat variability (SD1) (mean difference (MD) = 3.99; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.22 to 6.77, n = 46; I2: 0%) and the standard deviation of long-term variability (SD2) (MD = 11.37; 95% CI = 2.99 to 19.75; n = 46; I2: 0%). Aerobic exercise and some nonconventional training modalities may have beneficial effects on cardiovascular autonomic modulation in postmenopausal women. More high-quality studies are still needed to further confirm their efficacy and safety.

The prevalence and risk factors of the carpal tunnel syndrome in railway workers

Introduction. We conducted a comparative analysis of the prevalence and assessed risks of developing the carpal tunnel syndrome in relation to occupation, age, length of employment, and the body mass index for nine hundred twelve railway workers exposed to various occupational risk factors, including whole-body and local vibration, dynamic and static exercise, and hypodynamia. Materials and methods. The subjects were divided into three groups by working conditions. The first group included 304 drivers and their assistants, the second group was represented by 298 track fitters, and the third group consisted of 310 dispatchers. The carpal tunnel syndrome was diagnosed on the base of complaints, the clinical picture, an in-depth neural orthopedic examination according to a unified methodology, and electroneuromyography results. For statistical data analysis, descriptive statistics, logistic regression and comparison of shares based on the binomial distribution were used. Results. The risk of developing the syndrome in workers of all groups demonstrated a 1.65-fold gain for every 10 years of life. The highest prevalence of the disease was established among the track fitters (10.3 %). The odds of developing the syndrome increased by 1.17 and 1.19 times with a unit increase in the body mass index in the workers of the second and third groups, respectively. Cardiovascular diseases were found to have the greatest impact on the occurrence of the carpal tunnel syndrome in the workers of the third group (OR=8.58); their impact in other workers was weaker but always statistically significant. Limitations. The article has limitations on detailing working conditions of the groups under study. Conclusion. Our findings show in the group of drivers and their assistants, the highest risk of the carpal tunnel syndrome to be associated with the length of employment while in the groups of track fitters and dispatchers it was mainly determined by age and the body mass index, respectively.

Whole-body vibration reduces hamstrings neuromuscular function in uninjured individuals

ObjectivesDespite the growing use of whole-body vibration (WBV) to enhance quadriceps neuromuscular function, the hamstrings-specific response is unclear among those without neuromuscular impairment, which is important to inform performance-based recommendations. Our objective was to determine the immediate and prolonged effects of WBV on hamstrings and quadriceps neuromuscular function in uninjured individuals. DesignCrossover. SettingLaboratory. ParticipantsNineteen, recreationally active individuals performed WBV and control exercise protocols, consisting of six 1-min repetitions of isometric squats, on separate days in a randomized order. Main outcome measuresElectromyographic (EMG) amplitude, antagonist-to-agonist co-activation, rate of torque development, and peak torque of the hamstrings and quadriceps were measured pre-, immediately post-, and 20 min post-condition. Percentage change scores were calculated from baseline to each post-measurement. ResultsA condition main effect indicated that WBV reduced agonist semitendinosus EMG amplitudes more than the control (−12.1% vs. −1.5%, p < .001). Antagonist vastus medialis EMG amplitudes were reduced immediately, but not 20 min following WBV (−7.1% vs. 3.5%, p < .001). ConclusionsWBV induced an inhibitory effect on medial hamstrings activity during knee flexion contraction in a majority of our sample, yet this response was not uniformly observed and its functional relevance remains unclear in an uninjured population.

Whole body vibration activates the tonic vibration reflex during voluntary contraction.

[Purpose] The beneficial neuromuscular effects of whole-body vibration are explained by the tonic vibration or bone myoregulation reflex. Depending on factors that remain undefined, whole-body vibration may activate the tonic vibration or bone myoregulation reflex. We aimed to examine whether voluntary contraction facilitates activation of the tonic vibration reflex during whole-body vibration. [Participants and Methods] Eleven volunteers were included in this study. Local and whole-body vibrations were applied in a quiet standing (without voluntary contraction) and a semi-squatting (isometric soleus contraction) position. Local vibration was applied to the Achilles tendon. Surface electromyography was obtained from the soleus muscle. The cumulative average method was used to determine soleus reflex latency. [Results] In the quiet standing position, the bone myoregulation reflex latency was 39.9 ± 4.1 milliseconds and the tonic vibration reflex latency was 35.4 ± 3.6 milliseconds. Whole-body vibration application in the semi-squatting position activated the tonic vibration reflex in four participants and the bone myoregulation reflex in seven participants. Local vibration activated the tonic vibration reflex in both positions for all participants. [Conclusion] Simultaneous whole-body vibration application and voluntary contraction may activate the tonic vibration reflex. Determining the spinal mechanisms underlying the whole-body vibration exercises will enable their effective and efficient use in rehabilitation and sports.

Effects of the Whole-body Vibration Exercise Combined with Ankle Joint Mobilization on the Gait Function and Balancing Ability in Stroke Patients: A Preliminary Randomized, Controlled Study

Effects of the Whole-body Vibration Exercise Combined with Ankle Joint Mobilization on the Gait Function and Balancing Ability in Stroke Patients: A Preliminary Randomized, Controlled Study

Effects of whole body vibration exercise combined with weighted vest in older adults: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundTo evaluate the training effects of whole body vibration (WBV) combined with weighted vest (WV) in older adults.MethodsThis randomized controlled trial study was conducted in healthy older adults living in the community. Fifty-one participants were randomly allocated into 3 groups: group 1 (n = 17), WBV alone, training on WBV at a frequency 30 Hz, amplitude 2 mm, 10 sets of 1 min squats, with 60 s rest, group 2 (n = 15), WV alone, squat exercise, 10 sets of 1 min, with 60 s rest, while WV loaded with 10% body weight and group 3 (n = 19), WBV + WV, combining WBV exercise with the addition of a WV. All groups completed training 3 times per week for 8 weeks. The outcomes were total muscle mass, muscle thickness, maximal isometric strength, single-leg-stance and timed-up-and-go evaluated at baseline and after training.ResultsAs a result of training all groups improved their isometric muscle strength with little difference between groups. The single-leg-stance significantly improved only in WBV + WV group 25.1 ± 10.8 s (mean ± 95% CI, p < 0.01). The timed-up-and-go improved in all groups, but the improvement was significantly greater in the WBV + WV group (17.5 ± 6.9%) compared to the WV (8.5 ± 3.2%) and WBV groups (9.2 ± 5.4%, p = 0.043, 0.023 respectively). Rectus femoris muscle thickness and total muscle mass were significantly increased in all groups equally with little difference between groups.ConclusionThe combined WBV + WV had a greater effect on the single-leg-stance and the timed-up-and-go compared to WV or WBV alone.Trial registrationTCTR20190306001. Thai Clinical Trials Registry (www.thaiclinicaltrials.org). Date of registration: 6 March 2019.

The Influence of Surgical Mask on Heart Rate, Muscle Saturation of Oxygen, and Hemoglobin during Whole-Body Vibration Exercise.

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a safe and effective exercise system that affects muscle oxygen through several physiological processes, although its effects on different protocols are still unclear. Unfortunately, the COVID-19 pandemic has generated various health problems and controversy or confusion on its possible adverse consequences and impact on performance when wearing a mask during the practice of physical exercise. To analyze the acute effects of WBV exercise in muscle oxygen variables during different intervention phases with or without a surgical mask and compare protocols that differ in the order of vibration frequencies. Forty-seven healthy students participated in WBV training. They were randomly assigned to use or not use a mask between the three intervention groups: group A (8, 12.6, and 20 Hz), group B (12.6, 20, and 8 Hz), and group C (20, 8, and 12.6 Hz). Besides the 3 WBV moments, the intervention had a baseline moment, two rest time and a recovery moment. During the whole intervention, the heart rate (HR), muscle oxygen saturation (SatO2), oxyhemoglobin (O2Hb), and deoxyhemoglobin (HHb) were registered. There were no significant differences between the mask use and not use groups. Significant differences were found between the variables during the seven intervention moments and between intervention groups (A, B, or C). HR, SatO2, and Hb were not influenced by the use of a surgical mask, but they reacted differently through the different moments and were sensitive to vibration frequencies and respective order.

Circulating microRNA responses to acute whole-body vibration and resistance exercise in postmenopausal women

Evaluating alterations in circulating microRNA (c-miRNA) expression may provide deeper insight into the role of exercise in the attenuation of the negative effects of aging on musculoskeletal health. Currently, there are sparse data on c-miRNA responses to acute exercise in postmenopausal women. The purpose of this study was to characterize the effects of acute bouts of resistance exercise and whole-body vibration on expression of selected c-miRNAs in postmenopausal women aged 65-76 years (n=10). We also examined relationships between c-miRNAs and muscle strength and bone characteristics. This randomized crossover design study compared c-miRNA responses to a bout of resistance exercise (RE) (3 sets 10 reps 70% 1 repetition maximum (1RM), 5 exercises) and a bout of whole-body vibration (WBV) (5 sets 1min bouts 20Hz 3.38mm peak to peak displacement, Vibraflex vibration platform). DXA was used to measure body composition and areal bone mineral density (aBMD) of the total body, AP lumbar spine, and dual proximal femur. pQCT was used to measure tibia bone characteristics (4%, 38%, 66% sites). Blood samples were collected before exercise (Pre), immediately-post (IP), 60 minutes post (60P), 24 hours (24H), and 48 hours (48H) after exercise to measure serum miR-21-5p, -23a-3p, -133a-3p, -148a-3p (qPCR) and TRAP5b (ELISA). There was a significant modality × time interaction for c-miR-21-5p expression (p=0.019), which decreased from 60P to 24H after WBV only. TRAP5b serum concentrations significantly increased IP then decreased below Pre at 24H for both WBV and RE (p<0.01). Absolute changes in TRAP5b were negatively correlated with c-miR-21-5p fold changes (r= -0.642 to -0.724, p<0.05) for both exercise modalities. There were significant negative correlations between baseline c-miRNAs and bone status variables (r= -0.639 to -0.877, p<0.05). Our findings suggest that whole-body vibration is a sufficient mechanical stimulus for altering c-miR-21-5p expression, whereas a high intensity resistance exercise protocol did not elicit any c-miRNA responses in postmenopausal women. Increases in the bone resorption marker, TRAP5b, were associated with greater downregulation of c-miR-21-5p expression.