Whole-body vibration

Whole-body vibration (WBV) is a form of exercise and physical therapy that involves standing, sitting, or lying on a machine with a vibrating platform. When the machine vibrates, it transmits energy to the body, causing muscles to contract and relax dozens of times each second with the aim of increasing muscle strength, bone density, and flexibility, as well as improving blood circulation and reducing muscle soreness after exercise. The concept is based on the principle of mechanical oscillation.

History

The history of whole-body vibration can be traced back to ancient Greece, where a form of vibration was used as a healing modality for injuries. However, the modern application of WBV began in the 1960s with the space race. Scientists in the Soviet Union used WBV to help cosmonauts combat the effects of being in a weightless environment for extended periods, which included muscle atrophy and bone density loss.

Mechanism

Whole-body vibration works on the principle of reflexive muscle activation. The vibrations stimulate sensors in the body called proprioceptors, which are located in muscles and tendons. These sensors then signal the muscles to contract and relax. The most common frequencies used in WBV range from 15 to 60 Hertz. The effectiveness of WBV is influenced by several factors, including the frequency and amplitude of vibration, the duration of exposure, and the posture or position adopted on the machine.

Benefits

Research has indicated several potential benefits of whole-body vibration, including:

• Improvement in muscle strength and power
• Increase in bone density, which is particularly beneficial for individuals at risk of osteoporosis
• Enhanced blood circulation and lymphatic drainage
• Reduction in cortisol levels, a stress hormone
• Improvement in balance and flexibility

Risks and Considerations

While WBV is generally considered safe for most people, there are certain conditions where caution or avoidance is advised. Individuals with pregnancy, deep vein thrombosis, cardiovascular diseases, and those with recent implants or surgery should consult a healthcare provider before starting WBV. Excessive exposure to vibration may also pose risks, including the potential for damage to the eyes, brain, and internal organs.

Types of Machines

There are two main types of whole-body vibration machines: pivotal (or oscillating) and linear (or vertical). Pivotal vibration machines move in a see-saw motion, which mimics the human gait and is believed to be more effective for improving balance and muscle strength. Linear vibration machines move straight up and down, which is thought to be more effective for increasing bone density.

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