Exploring the Effects of a 20-Week Whole-Body Vibration Training Programme on Leg Muscle Performance and Function in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis
By Broekmans, Tom; Roelants, Machteld; Alders, Geert; Feys, Peter; Thijs, Herbert; Eijnde, Bert O.; Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, Volume 42, pags 866-872Publication Date: 2010
Study investigated the acute effects of long term whole body vibration (WBW) on leg muscle performance and functional capacity in persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants were 25 patients with MS and a mean age of 47.9 years, who were assigned randomly to an 11-member group receiving WBV training and a 14 member control group. The WBV group performed static and dynamic leg squats and lunges on an Alpha Vibe vibration platform at 25-45 hertz, 2.5 millimeter amplitude during a 20 week training period comprising 5 training sessions per 2 week cycle. The control group maintained their usual lifestyle. Knee muscle maximal isometric and dynamic strength, strength endurance, and speed of movement were measured using isokinetic dynamometry pre intervention, mid intervention at 10 weeks, and post intervention. Function was determined through the Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go, Two-minute Walk Test, and the Timed 25-foot Walk Test. Under the conditions of this study, the applied 20 week whole body vibration exercise protocol did not improve leg muscle performance or functional capacity in persons with mild to moderate impairment from MS during or immediately after the training program. Study limitations and implications for future research are discussed.
Published by: Foundation for Rehabilitation Information (Website:http://www.medicaljournals.se/jrm/foundation/)
Link to text: http://www.medicaljournals.se/jrm/content/?doi=10.2340/16501977-0609&html=1
